The Kamals: Dwellers Review

The Kamals are an intriguing take on the blues rock scene. From soothing to heavy soul, the band breaks boundaries and crosses genres, while managing a cohesive album in a style all their own. The Oklahoma natives bring psychedelic stylings, at times recalling Eric Burdon, while other times having the modern kick of Joshua Homme, in the form of shrieking moan and darker melodies full of heart wrenching riffs.

With a distorted growl and tantalizing play of the Fender Rhodes entwined throughout, Dwellers kicks off with “Awful Falafel.” This track boats a funky blues beat driven by Williams’ funky keys and Kaczka’s howlin’ guitar. The album doesn’t slow down, rolling right into “Big Mama’s Whip.” Starting off with a foot-stomping backbeat, the song builds to killer guitar and harmonica solos by Kaczka. “Letter Song” gets down and dirty, exuding a spiteful undertone, in its gritty guitar work and fiery vocals. Working its way to a climactic crescendo of all four parts rocking out, it will leave you begging for more. The next track, “Take It All,” takes it down a notch, a soulful ballad featuring Josh Griffin on acoustic guitar.

From sensitive ballad to heavy thudded stomp, The Kamals bring a new face to an old stage, re-imagining classic blues stylings. They possess a fierce edge, sharp and in your face. They rock hard, and they deliver some great tunes on Dwellers.

The Review: 7.5/10

Can’t Miss Tracks

– Awful Falafel
– Big Mama’s Whip
– Letter Song
– Take It All

The Big Hit

– Awful Falafel

Review by Don Tice