Artist:     Tommy Castro and the Painkillers

Album:     Killin’ It Live

Label:     Alligator

Release Date:     3/1/2019

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Bluesman Tommy Castro has come a long way since his days gigging in the Bay Area. On Killin’ It Live, the multiple Blues Music Association award winner and regular performer on the Legendary Rhythm Blues Cruise demonstrates that his blues chops and ability to work a crowd are as strong as ever. On a collection of tracks that mixes blues with rock and a touch of soul, Castro and his road-tested band always sound like they’re in their element.

“Make It Back To Memphis” and “Shakin ’The Hard Times Loose” showcase Castro’s affinity for high-energy roadhouse rock. Here, his warm, gravelly vocals seem to take a few cues from Delbert McClinton. On “Leavin’ Trunk,” Castro performs Taj Majal’s arrangement of the classic Sleepy John Estes tune. Knowing he has big shoes to fill, Castro puts everything he has into the vocals. The ensemble playing on this track is impeccable. As a guitarist, Castro puts as much energy into holding down the rhythm as he does soloing. When he locks into a groove with Bowen Brown (drums) and Randy McDonald (bass), the sound is absolutely airtight. Young whippersnappers would do well to listen and learn.

The greasy, no holds-barred slow blues “Lose Lose” lets Castro cut loose on guitar. Mike Emerson’s deft keyboard work adds to the lowdown atmosphere. Castro’s a top notch showman, but he’s not afraid to reveal his softer, contemplative side to the audience. “Anytime Soon” is a beautiful foray into socially conscious soul. The lyrics offer a touching mix of hope and resignation, and Emerson’s melodic keyboard playing brings the message home.

Killin’ It Live captures the sound of a band that clearly loves being on stage. When Castro kicks off a tune in front of a room full of blues lovers, you know there’s no place he’d rather be. His joy and enthusiasm shine on every track, and that makes for one outstanding live album.

—Jon Kleinman