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Mike Zito has put together an all-star cast for this album. Without having looked at the liner notes first, I noticed the piano is particularly good. And it would be thanks to Benmont Tench who plays piano on every track except "Today." Also in the band are: Hutch Hutchinson on bass, Tony Braunagel on drums, Darrell Leonard and Joe Sublett (aka Texacali Horns).
His raspy vocals (reminiscent of Stevie Ray Vaughn) are the perfect compliment to his guitar that straddles the line between blues and rock. He shows a broad range of influences, both from the world of blues and rock. The beginning of "Universe" somehow reminds me of Pearl Jam. "Blinded" shows some very disparate influences. There is a little Doobie Brothers in the rhythm guitar while the lead guitar tends more toward Santana.
This is a very strong album that includes twelve originals and a really easygoing cover of "Little Red Corvette." Zito is clearly a talented songwriter. And while he is a very solid guitar player, he doesn't indulge in a lot of solos. In fact, I think perhaps he could include some more. Teresa James and Ce Ce Bullard provide excellent backing vocals throughout the album. Overall, it's a really good effort and I expect more good things from Zito.
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