Emanuel Casablanca: Hollywood Forever Review

Hollywood Forever, the third album from Emanuel Casablanca, is scheduled for release on May 9th, 2025. The album is a Long play coming in at around 16 tracks some of which measure and length up to nearly nine minutes. The album is out on Bad Boy of Blues Media, which is Casablanca’s label and also the name of his foundation. Casablanca boasts a long history of collaboration with some of the most preeminent blues artists working today, and is known for his humanitarian endeavors as well as acting. The album cover indicates that the music found within is “reminiscent of vaporwave with a blues rock influence.” This is my first experience with vaporwave as a genre, but I don’t hate the way it plays with blues rock.

Hollywood Forever has its ups and downs, and while some songs on the record may not have been my cup of tea, all in all, the ups far outweigh the downs. There are six tracks on the record that I ranked a full 10 out of 10 and are just terrific contemporary blues rock with some intriguing experimental sound. “A Good Day to Die Young” in particular opens with an organ part that is almost reminiscent of Phantom of the Opera. It’s a rocking song about the joys of partying that almost branches into heavy metal territory at times. “Roulette” and “Lust and Lies” are also terrific tunes with traditional Delta blues feels that are almost reminiscent of Robert Johnson’s best work and carry a strong sexy energy.

“Black Man’s Burden” is also a terrific tune, short and to the point, that almost feels like a ’60s folk song, and while it deals with some pretty heavy subject matter, it carries a hopeful atmosphere. For my money, it’s the best song on the record and outshines even the title track. “Juggernaut” and “Flying” are also worthy songs with fun organs, crunchy guitars, and bouncy, exciting melodies that almost feel reminiscent of funk at times.

While the rest of the album doesn’t quite reach the heights that these songs do, Hollywood Forever is overwhelmingly a fun and stimulating take on blues rock that marries some electronic and pop elements with the classic muddy vibes fans of the genre are used to. Casablanca is an excellent guitarist and vocalist, and has the impressive quality of being able to pull off high sweet smooth vocals as well as a bit of a deep raspy growl, depending on what the song calls for. When the album is at its best, it feels like a passion-infused eclectic blend of multiple musical styles while staying grounded in the blues. And while parts of the album might slip into feeling a little bit disjointed, it’s a very respectable record and easy listening. Can’t wait to see more from Casablanca!

The Review: 8/10

Can’t Miss Tracks

– Roulette
– A Good Day to Die Youn
– Lust and Lies
– Black Man’s Burden

The Big Hit

– Black Man’s Burden