Michael Williams Band: Fire Red Review

It would seem that Michael Williams will cement his status as a rising blues superstar with the release of the album Fire Red. Teaming up with the legendary producer Eddie Kramer, Fire Red is a clash of soulful blues music and fiery guitars to create one of the best blues/rock albums of the year.

The album opens with two naturally cool tracks, “Hey Baby” and “No More Suffering”; both are summery songs with great, catchy riffs, soulfully expressive vocals, and just ooze with a chill vibe. Within these two tracks Williams displays his ferocity and proficiency with some wicked solos throughout. “Entre Tus Ojos” is the odd one out in the record. A track with a passionate Latin/Spanish sound complete with Spanish guitars and arpeggios, layered with harmonized Spanish lyrics. The track could to some seem a bit misplaced considering the rest of the songs on the album. “Bet Yo’ Mama” is a good rock track despite the suspect, unsubtle lyrics; however more of Williams’ incendiary guitar riffs and soloing carries the track. “Fire Red” is classic heavy rock tune with loud, aggressive guitar licks and solos. “If You Let Me” follows the same assertive heavy rock tone; The track is dominated by wailing guitars, pounding drums and crashing symbols. “Lately” is a beautiful track. It’s slow blues with a soulful vibe and Williams’ voice echoing with a tranquil, calm tone. The music flows, soars at times and flutters magnificently. The Final track “Dead And Gone” has a sweet, cheery melody, accompanied by morose lyrics, the track has a tender tune to it and an effective closing track on the album.

Fire Red is brilliant. It’s funky, soulful, and genuinely brings back the spirit of classic hard rock. Williams and the band’s excellence comes from their ability to create catchy melody hooks and great scorching guitar riffs, and solos that makes Williams the hottest new blues guitarist.

The Review: 9.5/10

Can’t Miss Tracks

– Hey Baby
– No More Suffering
– Fire Red
– Lately
– Dead And Gone
– If You Let Me

The Big Hit

– Hey Baby

Review by Josh May

Buy the album: Amazon | iTunes