SPILL ALBUM REVIEW: THE CLAUDETTES – GARAGE GLAMOUR

THE CLAUDETTES
GARAGE GLAMOUR
PRAVDA RECORDS

Garage Glamour is the new album from the Chicago-based blues, rock, and pop band The Claudettes, and it is pretty incredible.

This is the band’s sixth album, and their first with lead vocalist Rachel Williams. Covering a lot of stylistic ground and providing plenty of surprises, the songs were written by pianist/vocalist (and co-founder) Johnny Iguana. The rhythm section is comprised of Zach Verdoorn (on bass, vocals, and guitar), and founding member Michael Caskey, on drums. The Claudettes are also joined by some guest artists on this album, notably guitarist Ella Feingold, and legendary bluesman John Primer.

As they draw from a multitude of influences, it is difficult to describe The Claudettes by genre. Songs and performances are at various times soulful, funky, quirky, dark, and powerfully anthemic. While this may sound like a confusing melange, it is really this album’s secret sauce. Diversity is strength, and this band is mighty, indeed.

The lead off track is the burning soul groove “(You Are My) Whole World.” With strong duetted vocals and a searing guitar solo, this song gives 1970s vibes. Hot on its heels is “Winter Came While You Were Gone” with its rolling piano intro and bluesy, mystical feel. Building in tension, Williams’ vocal moves from light and wistful to full-throated power. Things get dark in the song “That Could Be Arranged.” This slice of cabaret-noir shifts in tone and movement as sonic elements come and go, taking the listener on a roller coaster of sound. What’s that piano figure? Fly in that pounding organ bit! It is all so unusual and it well-constructed, rising in chaos and leaving us in tranquility.

There are many standout songs here, such as the 1950s sultry girl-pop of “Whirlpool,” the urgent, driving torch blues “No Matter How Much,” or the theatrical “Don’t Give It Up to the Thieves.” All of the songs are incredibly well-produced and arranged, and the recording is impeccable. Garage Glamour will satisfy all musical tastes and is worthy of repeated spins. A great album!

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