“Wailin’ In Vienna: Kai Strauss’s Blues Blowout with Rusty Zinn, Alex Schultz, and Sax Gordon”

Review By Glen Parkes

The latest album from German blues guitarist Kai Strauss, is a riveting collection that seamlessly fuses soulful, old-school blues with a modern energy. With powerhouse features from Rusty Zinn, Alex Schultz, and Sax Gordon, Strauss brings an authentic yet fresh blues experience that takes listeners on a musical journey across 15 well-crafted tracks. The album kicks off with “Old Fashioned Daddy,” an upbeat, nostalgic nod to blues’ golden days. With its playful rhythm and catchy riffs, this track establishes the warm, classic tone that runs throughout the album. “5$ Shake” is a playful, foot-tapping delight, showing off the effortless collaboration between the musicians.

It’s immediately followed by “Travelin’ Man,” a tune that captures the bittersweet solitude of a life on the road, with Strauss’s guitar work and Zinn’s vocal touches driving home that longing feel. On “Stranded,” the slow and soulful chords give way to Alex Schultz’s intricate guitar solos, striking an emotional chord that digs deep. The album then pivots with “Sweet and Salty,” a 5-minute-plus tune that’s part jam session, part blues anthem—Sax Gordon’s brass flair brings a lively, sassy edge, elevating the vibe. The real heart of the album, though, lies in tracks like “You Quit This Game Too Soon” and “Slow Roast.” These tracks simmer with a laid-back groove, drawing listeners into their smooth, meditative flow. Sax Gordon’s saxophone truly shines here, weaving melodic lines that feel both bold and understated.

“Let’s Have a Good Time” is a short, snappy track that lives up to its name and showcases the trio’s effortless chemistry. The title track, “Wailin’ In Vienna,” is a masterclass in mood, a bluesy shout-out to the city’s rich musical scene, encapsulated in just under three minutes. Following that, “Save Your Worries” is a gentle reminder to let loose, while “Cooking for My Baby” brings a lighthearted, almost whimsical twist to the album. Strauss’s tribute to Bill Doggett, “Thank You Mr. Doggett,” is a memorable instrumental, exuding respect and admiration for the blues and R&B legend.

The closing tracks, “My Old Time Used to Be” and “Three Bells in a Row,” are reflective, contemplative, and deeply soulful—perfectly rounding out the album with an intimate, timeless feel. Wailin’ In Vienna is a stellar showcase of Kai Strauss’s ability to channel the spirit of blues legends while adding his own modern spin. With Rusty Zinn, Alex Schultz, and Sax Gordon by his side, Strauss has crafted an album that’s sure to please both blues purists and new listeners alike. This is blues at its finest—raw, heartfelt, and alive