Paul Reed Smith – Eightlock: Lions Roaring in Quicksand Review

Paul Reed Smith – Eightlock’s latest album, Lions Roaring in Quicksand, delivers a blend of richly-layered soul, funk, blues and rock rooted in a groove-heavy, rhythmically-dense backbone.

Renowned guitar player and manufacturer Paul Reed Smith is ahead of the project, teaming up with the cast of uniquely talented individuals that comprise Eightlock (eight musicians locked in a tight groove), his band. The lineup, in addition to Smith, includes celebrated drummers Dennis Chambers, Gregory Grainger, Ju Ju House, bassist Gary Grainger, vocalist Mia Samone Davis, and guitarists Mike Ault and Bill Nelson. As a resulting effort of the group’s capabilities, the 14-track Lions Roaring In Quicksand emerges, despite some reservations, as a compelling effort.

With interesting rhythmic dynamics at play, the album opens with “Sarah,” a mid-paced rocker that, while enjoyable, falls just slightly short of memorable. “Never Give Up On Livin”, on the other hand, delivers a more robust experience — it being a bluesy rocker with soaring vocals and biting lead guitar. The funky rocker “I’m Ready” carries the momentum forward, showcasing a punchy bass line and, once again, great guitar work.

The album’s finest moment comes with a cover of Al Green’s classic “Love and Happiness.” With a slapping, infectious bass line, impressive sax passages, outstanding guitar work, and soulful vocals, The band injects a fresh and robust edge into the original number, adding a whole new dimension to it.

Another highlight, “Breathe” slows down the pace with elegance and taste, offering late-night soul vibes, vibrant harmonies, and a memorable chorus.

However, as the album progresses to its second half, it faces some challenges. With the notable exceptions of the rhythmically rich, seemingly Santana-inspired “Ay, Doctor” and the sultry “99” with its enticing guitar playing, the tracks in the latter half lack the same drawing power and appeal as the ones in the first half, which affects the record’s consistency and overall impact.

Despite this, one can safely affirm that Lions Roaring in Quicksand is a good, rock-solid release. The clean and organic production enhances its retro-flavored yet fresh fusion of funk, soul, blues, and rock, and the extremely competent rhythm section excels in providing a groove-heavy, dynamic foundation. Atop this foundation, the inspired guitar work, along with the soul-inflected vocals, adds color and spice to the proceedings.

Overall, while its second half may not quite scale the same heights as its first, Lions Roaring In Quicksand’s positive attributes outweigh any shortcomings and should appeal to those who seek fresh, catchy tunes rooted in familiar soundscapes.

The Review: 7.5/10

Can’t Miss Tracks

– Never Give Up On Livin’
– I’m Ready
– Love and Happiness
– Breath
– Ay, Doctor

The Big Hit

– Love and Happiness

Buy the album: Amazon