Buddy Guy - Skin Deep

At the age of 72, and with a career boasting of five decades in the industry, Buddy Guy has been one of the longest standing spokespersons for the blues. Even after so many years in the industry still being relevant is by itself an achievement. Buddy in 2008 is not only relevant, but also jumping and kicking. In spite of playing the same good old blues Buddy always sounds fresh, owing mainly to his showmanship, which amazingly is out on display through his latest album; Skin Deep.

Buddy has picked his guest artists very wisely this time around. On the opening track Best Dam Fool buddy ropes in the contribution of The Memphis Horns, whose trumpet section in particular shouts out throughout the song adding to the loudness of the song. Even on the poignant track Too Many Tears, partnering Buddy on vocals is the queen of soulful blues music, Susan Tedeschi whose beautiful voice remains fresh in mind in after the track is over.

Lyin’ Like A Dog slices through with the sharpest ever licks produced by any senior citizen. The tone that Buddy manages to squeeze out of his Stratocaster is enviable to say the least. Hammer and Nail to is filled with tasteful short bursts, which are the essence of the song in this case.

Apart from the fiery tracks, the album also has some lighter moments pushed through with the help with emotive lyrics and singing, such as on the title track Skin Deep, where Buddy cries out for the equality of all human beings. Similarly, I Found Happiness has a romantic tinge to it aided by it’s dreamy late night setting. 

One of the key attractions of the album would be the track Every time I Sing The Blues, which features Buddy’s long time friend and idolizer Eric Clapton. It’s a delight to hear both the great blues guitarist exchange their licks, even more so considering the difference in the two guitarist’s tonal preferences would create a brilliantly confused landscape.

Slide guitar sensation Robert Randolph has become a recent favorite amongst veteran blues musicians as a jam partner. On Skin Deep, the guitarist is featured on two tracks; Out In The Woods and That’s My Home. His inclusion adds and element of variety to the instrument section, with his pedal steel screeching over buddy’s strat.

As a guitarist Buddy has always has and probably always will be phenomenal. But in addition, here on the album it is hard to pin point a single instance where Buddy falters with the vocals. He tackles the task with ease on both the upbeat Show Me The Money and laidback Smell The Funk.

Skin Deep does not bring anything sensationally new to the table, nor does it intend to do so. It’s another brilliant album from a blues master who is showing no signs of ageing or slowing down. A good ol’ blue album, plain and simle.