SPILL ALBUM REVIEW: WATERMELON SLIM – CHURCH OF THE BLUES

Watermelon Slim
Church Of The Blues
NorthernBlues Music

Church Of Blues is the new album by Bill Homans, also known in the blues community as Watermelon Slim. The album, which is out today, features seven of Watermelon Slim’s original songs as well as seven blues favourites. Church Of Blues is Watermelon Slim’s thirteenth album; his first album, Merry Airbrakes, was released in 1973.  The skillset he has gained throughout his long career is clearly demonstrated in his unique voice and sound.

Watermelon Slim sings about a bevy of topics from taxes and technology to love and relationship troubles. In “Post-Modern Blues”, he addresses the problems of society, complaining that technology is “dumbing us down” and wondering if it is a government plan in the lines, “don’t use your mind/everyone keep your eyes glued to the screen”.

Aside from his insightful lyrics, the guitar stands out in all of his songs. There are amazing guitar solos in Church Of Blues, especially in “Mni Wicomi – The Water Song” and “Gypsy Woman”. This album feels like Watermelon Slim is completely in his element, and even though he is singing the blues, you will feel anything but blue when listening to him play.

Watermelon Slim and the talented artists featured on the album are seasoned musicians in every way. There is not one song I would call a weak link, so if you are a blues fan this album is a must-listen.

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