Writer Richard Bush writes: The Golden Triangle region of Southeast Texas provides us with a rich musical legacy by producing such talents as Gatemouth Brown, Long John Hunter, Phillip Walker, Lonnie Brooks, Johnny & Edgar Winter, Ervin Charles, and Janis Joplin. It's from this musical heritage that guitarist Little Ray Ybarra rises and when the torch passes, he will be a worthy bearer. Little Ray and the Blues Sonics HOT ROD BLUES provides ample proof.
There are guitarists that play the blues and then there are blues guitarists. It's a distinction that is not only audible, it is felt. Little Ray's playing just flat has that feeling and he lets his guitar do all his talking and it's got a lot to say on this CD of Texas tough stuff. On many of these 13 cuts, all of which Ray had a hand in composing (except Go To The Mardi Gras), he allows his bandmates to set just such a mood and get the songs cranking while he helps lay down the rhythmic foundation. Then, on each, he flips the switch, takes over and shows why he leads the band.
Songs were recorded, mixed and mastered at The Musik Faktory/Great Recordings in Port Arthur, Texas.
Little Ray is backed by a stellar cast of musicians that include Kevin Gaissert on drums, Doc Bradford on bass, Gumbo Phil Daigle on vocals, Mike Williams on vocals, Joe Mendoza on harmonica & vocals, and some special guests.
Listen to the song samples then order your copy of the CD for your personal enjoyment.
