Review by Glen parkes
Kenny Wayne Shepherd’s latest release, Dirt On My Diamonds Vol. 2, is a powerful continuation of the journey he began with Vol. 1, offering a dynamic and textured exploration of modern blues-rock. Shepherd, a master guitarist and songwriter, delves deep into his signature sound while pushing his artistry forward, creating an album that feels both grounded in tradition and fresh with new ideas.
Written and recorded at the iconic FAME Studios in Muscle Shoals, Alabama, the album channels the magic of that historic space, adding layers of bold horn arrangements and orchestral flourishes that elevate the raw emotional power of Shepherd’s music. Produced with precision and care, Dirt On My Diamonds Vol. 2 is a perfect blend of Shepherd’s fiery guitar work, soulful storytelling, and a sense of musical progression.
The album opens with “I Got A Woman,” a blues-rock track that sets the tone for the record. Shepherd’s guitar is sharp and aggressive, his riffs cutting through the mix with ease, while his band complements him with tight rhythms and rich horn arrangements. The song encapsulates the heart of Shepherd’s style—blues roots fused with rock energy, all delivered with a modern edge.
Tracks like “The Middle” and “My Guitar Is Crying” dive deep into more introspective territory. Shepherd’s vocal performance, often overshadowed by his guitar prowess, shines here. His voice, weathered but soulful, delivers the lyrics with a conviction that makes these songs stand out. “My Guitar Is Crying” is a particularly emotional highlight, with the guitar practically weeping in tandem with Shepherd’s aching vocals, showcasing his ability to make his instrument an extension of his voice.
“Long Way Down” and “Never Made It To Memphis” keep the energy high, with both tracks featuring driving rhythms and infectious hooks. The former is a gritty, no-nonsense blues-rock anthem, while the latter offers a more reflective vibe, as Shepherd laments missed opportunities and the roads not taken. The storytelling in “Never Made It To Memphis” is poignant, making it one of the album’s most memorable tracks.
One of the standout elements of Vol. 2 is the seamless integration of new textures into Shepherd’s sound. The horn arrangements on “Watch You Go” add a layer of richness that complements the grit of his guitar, while the orchestral elements on “Pressure” give the song a cinematic feel, elevating it from a simple blues number to something far grander.
Kenny Wayne Shepherd has always been known for his guitar work, and Dirt On My Diamonds Vol. 2 does not disappoint in that regard. His solos are fiery and passionate, displaying the technical prowess that has earned him a place among the greats. However, this album also highlights his growth as a songwriter and producer. He’s unafraid to experiment with new sounds, and the result is a collection of songs that feel both familiar and refreshingly new.
As Shepherd prepares for the Experience Hendrix Tour and reflects on a career that began with his debut Ledbetter Heights, Dirt On My Diamonds Vol. 2 is a testament to his enduring relevance. It’s clear that he’s not content to rest on his laurels; instead, he’s continuing to push his sound in new directions while staying true to the blues-rock roots that made him a star.
In the end, Dirt On My Diamonds Vol. 2 is a triumph for Kenny Wayne Shepherd. It’s an album that perfectly captures where he is as an artist—rooted in tradition, but unafraid to explore new musical landscapes. Fans of blues and rock alike will find much to love here, from the blistering guitar solos to the introspective lyrics. This is a record that demands to be played loud and often.
‘Dirt On My Diamonds, Volume 2’ by Kenny Wayne Shepherd
1. I Got A Woman
2. The Middle
3. My Guitar Is Crying
4. Long Way Down
5. Never Made It To Memphis
6. Watch You Go
7. Pressure
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