***1/2 (out of 4)
Label: Purdy Records
Singer/songwriter/guitar player Shannon Curfman’s 4th Album “What You’re Getting Into” was released on February 9th of this year and is currently #12 on the Billboard Blues Album Chart.
In 1999 Curfman released her debut album “Loud Guitars, Big Suspicions“- at the tender age of 14- to rave reviews. The impressive blues album sounded like the product of someone with far more years behind her; since then, Curfman’s stellar songs and soulful vocals have only gotten better.
”Seven years later she released the EP “Take It Like A Man”, followed quickly by “Fast Lane Addiction” which incorporated the songs from the previous CD with additional tracks to create a full-length album. With the release of these two albums, Shannon moved away from her blues roots in favor a harder rock attitude.
Curfman credits her time living in Detroit, working with members of Kid Rock’s team, and the influence of Led Zeppelin while in L.A. for inspiring her transition to hard rock-which of course was itself influenced by the blues. Other influences on Curfman’s exceptional work include: Robert Johnson, B.B. King, Jeff Healey, Jonny Lang, Jimi Hendrix, Chris Whitley and many others, including the guitar player Shannon calls her “biggest influence” Jeff Beck, with whom she’s spent much time hanging out.
With the release of “What You’re Getting Into” Shannon has returned to her blues roots while maintaining a rock edge. Her amazing cover of Eric Clapton’s “The Core” is stellar; not surprisingly, she notes that she’s been playing the song since she was about 11. Her cover of Brian May’s “Dragon Attack” is another great selection for classic rock lovers, with amazing guitar work by Stevie D of Buckcherry.
There are three cover songs and seven original songs on “What You’re Getting Into” -all of which add up to a hell of a lot of listening enjoyment. Offering pure escapism, there are no political overtones or heavy messages in Curfman’s songs. This is music designed strictly for entertainment, whether you’re with friends, driving in the car or just hanging around the house alone.
If you like the blues and classic rock, performed with passion and soul, this album and all Shannon’s music are for you. Since she’s on an independent label it’s preferable to purchase her music on her website atwww.shannoncurfman.com, where you can also see her current tour dates and purchase a copy of her original, private label version of “Loud Guitars, Big Suspicions” which has a few songs you can’t get anywhere else.
You can listen to my exclusive interview with Shannon Curfman by clicking here.
Interview w_Recording Artist Shannon Curfman_ A CRF Non-Political Special – Feb 27,2010
