Billy TK Junior: Presenting Billy TK Junior
By Mark Bell
Billy TK Junior has carved himself a handy niche within the blues guitar-slinging community both here and abroad, and this eponymous release is clearly intended as a reminder of his wide-ranging abilities. Things kick off in fine style with the Chicago boogie of Do You Remember, although the five-string bass tends to detract a little from its authenticity, while the mandatory 12-bar shuffle of Bring It On showcases TK's facility with Buddy Guy/Stevie Ray stylings. Goodbye Baby leans more towards Hendrix, but is let down by some rather clichéd lyrics. Still, if you listen to blues for lyrical enlightenment you're probably barking up the wrong tree. TK's playing is seriously accomplished throughout the album, as are his soulful vocals. While the reggae-lite of Dance With Me broadens the scope of the album in a pleasant, if fairly inconsequential way, Flag a Ride demonstrates TK is equally at home in a gentle acoustic setting as he is setting off blues pyrotechnics. The remaining tracks move between AC balladry, and up-tempo 12-bar blues-funk. The next-to-last offers an eastern-tinged acoustic number featuring tabla and temple bells, while closer Island Exit is a light and frothy Afro-Cuban 12-bar workout. This release succeeds in confirming his reputation as this country's premier exponent of electric blues guitar.
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