Ric Slagle – Horntoad

Rick Slagle puts the sax out front on this fine album of (mostly) instro blues that also features guitar, drums, bass, piano and harmonica (and occasionally other instruments). Mr. "S" also carries the vocal load (though Beth Hay is enticing on "Summertime") as he guides us through his forest of blue delights. This album has a very direct sound without fast scales or jazzy chops, just a passionate and emotive attack, that frequently does no more than straight melody. A sense of ethereal modesty permeates this project, consisting mostly of covers, with three originals. There's a lot of good playing and a seamless production quality to be enjoyed on "Horntoad".

Track Listing:
1. Back At The Chickenshack – 4:45   2. Weaver of Dreams – 3:19   3. Cinco De Mayo – 4:44   4. The Fever – 6:16   5. Georgia on My Mind – 5:20   6. Horn Alone – 4:49   7. As Tears Go By – 2:58   8. Catrina – 2:42   9. All The Way – 2:58   10. Poor Fool – 3:58   11. Summertime – 10:33   12. Mr. Bojangles – 4:27