David Jacobs-Strain Live From the West Coast (Self-released)
David Jacobs-Strain is in many ways the prototypical country blues artist. His voice is a touch gravelly at just the right moments, his finger-style guitar work deftly walks the bass while picking out jump rhythms (or smoothing out some tasty resonator slides), and he has a top-notch harmonica accompanist in Bob Beach. Lyrically, Jacobs-Strain is no Loudon Wainwright III, but he style casts visual tales of human nature and, for that matter, nature, particularly when describing the drive through the coastal foothills north of Santa Cruz on the way to “Pescadero Beach.” Recorded over two days in Dec. 10, this live album showcases Jacobs-Strain’s ability as a performer and showman. It’s not easy filling a stage with two people, but in this duo, that whole band-feel is there. Standout tracks include a version of Stephen Stills‘ “Treetop Flyer,” which goes from a folky tale of drug running to a full-on Delta blues breakdown—and back. Songs from Robert Johnson and Taj Mahal get similar treatment among the many originals filling the disc. Admittedly, there are a couple soft-folk moments that slow the pace a bit too much, but overall Live From the West Coast is an upbeat good ‘ol time. The album is available at Jacobs-Strain’s website. —Glenn BurnSilver
