The Devil You Know

While this album was released last year, many might not have been exposed to this particularly blues infused hard edged CD. Without a single filler tune, the album simply drives in high gear from cut to cut, first to last. ’The Devil You Know’, the first tune and album title, gives a quick indication of just why Tommy Castro and the Painkillers have twice been a winner of the Blues Music Awards for B.B. King Entertainer of the Year. We can all say we have favorite cuts from any release, and certainly, I am no different. ‘Center of Attention’ uses the Painkillers’ killer rhythm section to drive home the angry but empathetic lyrics of that drama queen we all have met at one time or another. ’Two Steps Forward’ adds some real spicy meter changes, while ’She Wanted To Give It To Me’ made me repeat the song over and over while I laughed at the lyrics overlaying a strong bass line. At this time, it is my favorite cut, but that can change with my many repeated listenings. You can make up your own mind as you listen but I guarantee you won’t regret picking this release to add to your collection.

Love Tommy but really miss his old band and music, especially the horns. He puts on a killer live show, but when it comes to listening to his music at home, in the car, on the bike…. I'll take the old guys hands down. If it ain't broke…don't fix it.

Castro’s exquisite guitar work drives the 13-song blues bonanza of passionate, insightful and energetic compositions. Released by Alligator Records, “The Devil You Know” possesses plenty of bite with an assortment of artists contributing to the feel and flavor of the sound. The title track sets the stage for what is to follow with a raw and gritty performance of first-rate musicianship. Guitar great Joe Bonamassa joins Castro and unleashes a Stevie Ray Vaughan vibe on the smoldering “I’m Tired.” The Cajun influence of Louisiana’s own Tab Benoit is showcased through Benoit’s searing guitar and soulful vocals on the rousing “When I Cross the Mississippi.” The Holmes Brothers and blues harpist Magic Dick (J. Geils Band) are featured on the blistering rocker “Two Steps Forward.” A strong female presence is well represented with the smooth R&B vocal stylings of Tasha Taylor on “The Whale Have Swallowed Me” and the vocal versatility of Samantha Fish on the spirited “Medicine Woman.” With “The Devil You Know,” Castro firmly secures his modern-day blues reputation in a convincingly powerful manner.