The Dukes of Destiny
3
Perhaps Dukes singer John Colgan-Davis sums up this band the best, "We're a band...not so-and-so and his back-up band". Working the Philly area for over 17 years, this is a group of road-tested veterans who have not only survived the loss of their founder and inspiration, Steve Brown (whom the cd is dedicated to) but have, with the release of 3, presented a wonderful mix of original songs and well arranged covers. Yes, the members have changed over the many years but the core unit of the group remains and it's that history and experience that drives every song on this well produced release.

A first impression of 3 is simply a terrific cd of well arranged songs featuring the strong vocals of Colgan-Davis and newest Duke, Arlyn Wolters. Upon a second listen (and trust us, you'll listen to this cd again and again), you begin to pick up on the subtle nuances that only veteran players seem to bring to a musical effort like 3. This is a group of 6 musicians, working together, to produce a well conceived album. Tight pockets, strong dynamics and the 'less is more' mentality have served the Dukes well. 3 is a shining example of that very musical philosophy.

Of the 14 songs on this cd, 8 of them are covers, which may be a couple too many but they are well chosen. From a stirring version of Duke Robillards, 'You Mean Everything to Me', where Wolters voice shines, to the jump blues style of a semi-obscure Otis Rush tune, 'Three Times a Fool', the Dukes demonstrate their broad range of stylistic talent. Other notable covers on 3 are, Billy Boy Arnolds, 'I Wish You Would' and the Lowman-Pauling classic, 'Think'.

Aside from their original interpretations of the covers and their solid pocket throughout, what may be most notable is the fact that the average listener will not notice the covers from the originals. Singer and harp player, John Colgan-Davis can take comfort in knowing his original material rests comfortably next to some of the musical icons they cover so well.

Of the original material, it's hard to pick a standout as they all have a strength of their own and none of them sound - at all - like the other. Newest Duke, Arlyn Wolters is featured on 5 of them and she is everything a solid blues singer should be. Good range and power; sinewy at times, and belting it out at others. She is absolutely terrific on the 8-plus minute, slow blues tune, 'Why', as is the entire band. To keep a song that long interesting isn't easy but via a great bass line from Rich Curtis, the haunting organ sounds of Walt Runge, the strong lead work of Sax player Carl "CC" Crabtree and guitarist Richard Ray Adler, the Dukes sell it all the way.

Colgan-Davis sings about "strange things happening" on 'Call you Tonight' but the only thing happening is a heavy pocket and catchy melody line that could drive this song right to radio play. 'Laugh a Lot' has the kind of lyrics and steady shuffle beat that can't miss with the majority of blues lovers. Similarly, the cd's opening tune, 'Goin' Away, Babe' is a catchy number underlined by a driving bass line and fat-back drumbeat that's enhanced with well placed harmonica accents. Perhaps the most interesting original track is the closer, 'Lost in the Midnight Hour'. Again, featuring the vocal talents of Wolters and solid harp work of Colgan-Davis, this song harkens an era long since past but one that has influenced so many gospel and R&B acts.

3 is a thoroughly enjoyable cd from beginning to end, there are simply no weak spots. It's 14 songs that work well together; mixing originals and covers that not only compliment each other but clearly demonstrate why the Dukes of Destiny have not just survived, but continue to thrive.

Phillyblues.com