Tom Gilberts Old School

Tom Gilberts
Old School
Polymerase Records

Apparently, this is the second album on Polymerase Records by singer-songwriter-guitarist Tom Gilberts. Gilberts, joined by Dave Captein on bass and Brian Foxworth on drums, wrote the twelve tunes on this recording. Produced by Terry Robb, the music is rooted in the blues, with some roots and rock elements to it.

The opening notes of "'Lady' Luck" suggest a blues-rock power trio. However, Gilberts quickly establishes himself as a player who can lay down acidic phrases and runs but displays a thoughtful and deliberate attack with solos that are well constructed. He may not be a great singer, but his vocals have appeal with a low-key delivery where he sings about lady luck being no lady and no friend of his when he is playing blackjack and other games. Whatever his vocal limitations, his sincerity is conveyed throughout.

There is a mix of vocal tracks and instrumentals, including "Zoot Suit Shuffle." that sounds like a perky break song. "Sun Vibe," another instrumental, displays his use of tone and his phrasing set against an understated backing. The instrumental, "Brown's Camp," also demonstrates his taste and lack of deceptive flash. His slide guitar is featured on several tracks, including the title track, where he sings about being kinda old school as he grills with charcoal, not propane. Set at a medium walking tempo, "You Missed Me" has a thoughtful vocal and nice shuffle groove laid down by Captein and Foxworth. "Nightime" is an evocative number about being a time to hold hands under the stars while gently talking to one other.

"The Fuzz," displays his restraint in phrasing. Gilberts employs fuzz-tone and other electric effects on an atypical instrumental in closing this album. While this CD may not be compelling, it most definitely charms with the skill and tastefulness of Tom Gilberts' performances.

I received my review copy from a publicist.