Walter Trout: Blues For The Modern Daze Review

With his latest solo album, Blues For The Modern Daze, legendary blues guitarist Walter Trout successfully showcases the blues influences of days gone by, while continuing to plough forward with an edgy and progressive sound that is sure to touch any blues fan.

Trout’s album is not for the faint of heart. With heavy influences of all the blues greats, including Albert Collins, Stevie Ray Vaughan, Paul Butterfield and Johnny Lee Hooker, Trout has created an album that grooves hard from the first downbeat to the last. In addition to his hard-hitting blues-rock, Trout masters the art of the ballad with emotionally inspired performances on “Recovery,” a song that details his own addiction and recovery, as well as “Blues For My Baby,” which boasts fantastic interplay between guitar and piano. Trout has several songs inspired by political and current events. While these songs don’t hide Trout’s opinions of the current state of the world, they are still rather enjoyable, though the lyrics are often quite cynical. Yet – regardless of one’s political views – these songs contribute to the album’s greatest strength: personality. Trout holds nothing back and instead speaks honestly about his past, his life and his opinions on the world. It is rare to find an album that reflects as strong a personality as this album, and for that Trout must be commended. “All I Want Is You” and “Pray For Rain” showcase Trout’s love for old-school country blues and are both enjoyable tracks.

While Trout’s vocals are solid throughout, the biggest story of the album is his guitar work. Based on this album, it is clear why Trout was a highly sought after sideman for many years, working for the likes of John Lee Hooker, Mama Thornton and Joe Tex.

The Review: 8/10

Can’t Miss Tracks

– Blues For My Baby
– Recovery
– Turn Off Your TV
– All I Want is You
– Pray for Rain

The Big Hit

– Turn Off Your TV

Review by Nik Rodewald