Review THE DEAD DAISIES “Lookin’ For Trouble”

Are you looking for trouble? Usually, certainly not, but you might make an exception in this case. “Lookin’ for Trouble” is the title of the new album by The Dead Daisies, which features ten blistering rock songs. As we have come to expect from the band, each album is a treat for blues and rock enthusiasts.

“Lookin’ for Trouble” is a blues-soaked album with roots in the “Light ‘Em Up” recording session. After completing the album at Sienna Studios in Nashville, the band moved to Alabama to finish it at the legendary Fame Studios. Inspired by the location that hosted legends like Aretha Franklin and Etta James, the band jammed and recorded some songs, which ultimately led to a full-length album.

“Lookin’ for Trouble” is a cover album, but it has heart and soul. The opening song, “I’m Ready,” originally by Muddy Waters, showcases the band’s talent. The incorporation of their formidable hard rock ethos into this composition serves as an exquisite introduction to the album, setting an elevated standard for the remainder of the work. Next is Freddie King’s “Going Down,” a grooving rock-and-blues hybrid. “Boom Boom” is a tribute to John Lee Hooker with a stronger The Dead Daisies twist. The band’s approach is not just to play these classics, but to give them an extra spark, as they do with “Black Betty,” which comes across as a thumping Southern rocker with a connected blues vibe.

B.B. King’s “The Thrill Is Gone” embodies the melancholy of the blues, with John Corabi’s emotional vocals being a highlight. He lives the song instead of just singing it. Essentially, you can drop the needle wherever you like. You’ll always be rewarded with a great interpretation of a blues classic.

To emphasize is “Crossroads,” initially by Robert Johnson. Of course, you can’t compare The Dead Daisies’ interpretation to the 1936 original, yet The Dead Daisies’ hard rock vibe breathes new life into the classic. “Sweet Home Chicago,” with the embedded harmonica, got a spot on this album, as did their interpretation of “Walking the Dog.” This upbeat new version pays homage to Rufus Thomas and transitions to “Little Red Rooster,” a legendary Willie Nelson song.

“Lookin’ for Trouble” is an album that wasn’t long-planned. It resulted from jam sessions and showcases the passion of The Dead Daisies’ musicians for blues and rock. The band’s ability to transform these classics into melancholic yet rocking new versions is impressive. This album is pure fun to listen to.