Bman's Blues Report

I just received the newest release, Rock Slide , from Sterling Koch and it's a sliding boogie master. Opening with Shake 'em On Down , Sterling Koch on vocal and lap steel is joined by Gene Babula on bass, Jon Goba on drums, Bret Alexander on rhythm guitar and Jack Kulp on harp for a great driving opening. On Sugar , Koch uses a walking line as well as slick lead lap steel to brighten an easy slung boogie. With Jennifer Dierwechter on backing vocals this is another cool track. Leading a bit more toward country rock and the two step, Good To Go , finds Koch putting out a rocking slide tone, kind of a blend between JJ Cale, Rod Price and Eric Clapton. Slow and soulful, Leavin' Me With The Blues , is my favorite track on the release with Koch's best vocals and joined by Bob Wagner on keys. This track to me shows a lot of early British blues influence and crisp slide riffs. Made popular by Stevie Ray, Crossfire doesn't get much of a rework but a sliding interpretat...