Steve Hill’s ‘Hanging on a String’ – A Fiery Testament to Blues Rock Mastery

Review By Halina Wegner

Award-winning Canadian blues-rock virtuoso Steve Hill returns with his latest album, “Hanging on a String,” released on November 1, 2024. Known for his multi-instrumental prowess and as a one-man band, Hill delivers a raw, powerful album packed with bluesy grit and rock energy, and he doesn’t hold back on emotion or intensity.

The record opens with the gripping title track, “Hanging on a String” (4:21), which sets the tone with the vivid line, “Woke up in a house on fire.” This is not just a metaphorical fire, but a real-life experience that sparked the conception of the album. Hill had just completed a tour in Western Canada when he found himself waking up in a smoke-filled room, surrounded by flames in a friend’s basement. The tension and adrenaline from that near-tragedy pulse through the track, with Hill’s searing guitar riffs complementing his gravelly, commanding vocals. It’s a blistering opener, blending blues and rock in a way that only Hill can do.

“Devil’s Handyman” (3:32) follows with a swampy, rhythmic groove. Hill’s guitar work is as fierce as ever, channeling the raw energy of legends like Hendrix while adding his own unique flair. The track plays with the theme of wrestling with demons, with lyrics that evoke the struggle of being manipulated by forces beyond control, yet Hill’s gritty guitar solos speak of defiance and survival.

One of the album’s standout tracks, “World Gone Insane” (6:48), is a six-minute odyssey that addresses the chaos and uncertainty of the modern world. Hill’s vocals are reflective yet cutting, lamenting a world that seems to be spinning out of control. His guitar work is both haunting and cathartic, offering a sense of release as the track builds to an explosive crescendo.

For a change of pace, “Maggie” (4:46) slows things down, offering a soulful and introspective ballad. Hill’s emotional vulnerability shines through here, with the gentle strumming of his guitar accompanied by heartfelt lyrics that tell the story of longing and loss. It’s a beautiful contrast to the harder-edged tracks on the album, showing Hill’s versatility not only as a guitarist but as a songwriter.

The album picks up speed again with “You Know Who” (4:10), an energetic and punchy track where Hill lets loose. The catchy chorus and blues-rock riffs make this an instant crowd-pleaser, while the biting lyrics suggest Hill has a score to settle.

Hill’s versatility as a musician is further showcased in “Turned to Dust” (3:13), where his guitar effortlessly alternates between soulful licks and hard-hitting riffs. This track embodies the essence of blues rock, reflecting on the inevitability of decay and how life’s fleeting moments eventually turn to dust.

The album’s epic closer, “When the Music’s Over” (8:00), is nothing short of a masterpiece. Stretching to eight minutes, it serves as a final ode to the power of music itself. Hill’s electrifying solos and impassioned vocals take center stage, and the song feels like a culmination of everything that came before it – bluesy anguish, rock rebellion, and a deep reverence for the craft.

Steve Hill’s “Hanging on a String” is a testament to his unwavering dedication to the blues-rock genre. His ability to pour raw emotion into every riff and lyric makes this album not only a thrilling listen but a personal journey. Whether he’s waking up in a house on fire or navigating the darker corners of the human experience, Hill’s storytelling, musicianship, and unparalleled skill with a guitar leave an indelible mark.

If you’re looking for an album that combines fiery guitar work, introspective lyrics, and raw blues-rock energy, “Hanging on a String” will not disappoint. Hill proves once again that he’s not only a master of his craft but also a storyteller who can turn life’s harrowing moments into unforgettable music.

The album is available to pre-order on CD and vinyl from – https://stevehillmusic.shop/collections/hanging-on-a-string-album