The Harpoonist and the Axe Murderer are a different name for a blues band, but then The Harpoonist ( vocalist/ harp/ bassist) Shawn Hall and the Axe Murderer Matthew Rogers (guitar, drums, keyboards, bass) are a different kind of blues duo in a music scene where it seems like every guitarist with a friend with a drum kit wants to be like the Black Keys.
However, The Harpoonist and the Axe Murderer put a new twist on Black Keys style guitar and drums blues duos, mostly because of the frenetic harp playing, which makes them stand out and then some.
The Vancouver based duo sound like a blend of the Black Keys mixed with Paul Reddick, with catchy pop hooks.
Hall’s vocals sound like the Fine Young Cannibals playing blues music at a jam session with Storyville with the Black Keys sitting in.
There is a lot of harp of course, which sounds like Paul Reddick’s playing, some funk, a touch of ZZ Top and even a touch of hip hop and something altogether strange. The duo delivers a delicious stew full of the blues and a lot soul.
“ Wake-Up” stands out immediately,” as does the ZZ Topish “Shake It,” they get a little funky on “Roll With The Punches.
The frenetic harp and driving beat of “Get Out,” stands out. “Get Out” is quickly becoming one of my favourite songs and is definitely my favourite from the CD.
“The Sky Is Falling,” is a little more laid back and soulful.
They also add their own funky twist to blues classic “Can’t Judge a Book.”
And “Mellow Down Easy,” brings the funk again.
But they end on a high note with another ZZ Top inspired number “Burning Bridges.”
Band: The Harpoonist and the Axe Murderer
CD: Checkered Past
Genre: blues
