Title: Roadhouse Research
Artist: Smokin' Joe Kubek with Bnois King
Label: Blind Pig, 2003
Reviewed by: Mark Smith - March, 2003

On their Blind Pig debut after seven discs for the Bullseye Blues label, guitarists Smokin' Joe Kubek and Bnois King continue the stunning guitar interplay that has kept them in demand throughout their storied career. Kubek's hard-hitting Texas-style guitar evokes memories of Albert or Freddie King, while King's jazz-based riffs fall somewhere between Santana and T-Bone Walker. The combination of these two distinct styles gives the band a unique sound that separates it from the balance of the guitar army that is marching its way through the blues, playing the same old riffs with the same old sounds. Also separating them from the blues masses is the fact that eight discs into their career they are still recording virtually all original material. This time out the pair turn their attention to a variety of subjects including their dislike for hip-hop and rap, Cryin' Shame; the need for people to stop wasting time and get the important things done, Better be Getting it On; the need to have a pocket full of cash (and the joy of getting it), Got to Get Paid; and the fact that the blues have survived this high-tech world and have a history of sorrow and pain that eclipses today's troubles and diseases, The Blues is Still with Us. On the love front, King looks to lure his lady into his lair on the mid-tempo Make it Right, which he delivers with an earnest, seductive plea. While they can croon to the ladies, the pair also leer with the guys as revealed on Healthy Mama, where King counts off the anatomical attributes of an intended conquest; with distorted vocals that reveal lust more than love. Each cut is a guitar lover's delight with the slow scorchers, Runnin' Blind and Standing in my Door and the jazzy Tell me Why being particularly tasty. This material is roadhouse tested and ready for your enjoyment.