Don’t let the name deceive you: Frenchie’s Blues Destroyers are more than a blues band. Sure, Kevin “Frenchie†Sciou is well-studied in the genre and can unleash a heavy – and heavenly – blues riff with his guitar. That being said, Praise, the sophomore release from the duo of Frenchie and drummer Brother Pete Coatney, showcases an expanded musical palette.
One need look no further than the brooding Beatles-esque pop of the title track for an example of their musical reach. That tone is equally present on the stormy “I Long To Come Home.â€
“I Never Meant to Hurt You†is built around a gem of a 1960’s soul riff while “Miss Me When I’m Gone†is an early 1960’s foot stompin’ and hand clappin’ good time. Frenchie’s rumbling guitar propels the classic rock stylings of “Take a Stand†with some fine harmonies offering an occasional gentle counterpoint.Â
There are, of course, tracks that are steeped in the blues. “Blue Eyes Can Do You No Wrong” crackles with an infectious juke joint vibe. The ambling “Find Another Fool†grooves with a tasty bluesy shuffle. The duo also offer up a feisty cover of Don Nix’s “Black Cat Moanâ€, a song previously recorded by Jeff Beck and John Mayall.
The song titles reveal the shades of lyrical heartbreak that inhabit the songs on Praise. There’s a full spectrum of break-up emotion, from “Never Meant to Hurt You†to “I Long To Come Home†to “Find Another Foolâ€. Sciou doesn’t pull his punches with his lyrics… or his guitar.
Twangville is honored to share the full album preview of Frenchie’s Blues Destroyers Praise, scheduled for release tomorrow. Click on the album cover below to access the music.Â
And, while you’re listening, you can pre-save/order the album here.
About the author: Mild-mannered corporate executive by day, excitable Twangville denizen by night.