It’s tough to find a guy who sounds like he’s having as much fun making a record as does Lil’ Ed. His sixth Alligator effort kicks off with “Leaving Here,” and the old Holland-Dozier gem gets a rompin’ treatment highlighted by Ed’s punchy solo. On any record by this band, you’re bound to hear fine slide, and this is no exception. The walking blues of “That’s the Truth” is cut in two, which is only fitting since it was written by Ed’s uncle, J.B. Hutto – who happens to be the guy who taught him to play slide. And the band is filthy nasty.

If you want slow blues with Albert King-style bends, “Nobody’s Fault But My Own” does the trick. And hard boogie with biting guitar highlights “Broken Promises.” “Spend Some Time With Me” is a textbook roadhouse shuffle with a fat guitar solo that just oozes grease. And “Icicles in My Meatloaf” is fun stomper with a lyric to amuse anyone except the victim. It also features a cool “conversation” between Ed and his guitar, with the slide portraying the woman’s voice. Very fun, and very clever.