Vinny Roth proves adept at mixing funk, rock, and fusion to make a record that sounds fresh and new – and yet still seems to fit like an old shoe.
Red Wine Sunshine and Loud Guitars
There are numerous instrumentals showcasing his playing. “Strat-Tastrophe” is a funky rocker with clever bluesy lead and rhythm playing from Roth. “Gypsy Cry” calls to mind the instrumental jams of the Allman Brothers with fine soloing and dual lines thrown in for good measure. Roth mixes it up a bit by throwing in a country-blues feel on the title cut. His acoustic slide delivers the perfect message.
The vocal cuts all mix genres with ease. In fact, several cuts have a funky, rocking feel that switches midway through to a pop bridge that is unexpected and welcomed.
The tunes are all original except for an interesting slow-blues cover of Jimi’s “Crosstown Traffic.” Roth makes full use of his Strat and blistering double-stops to tip his hat to Jimi while delivering one of the least-derivative Hendrix covers you’ll hear.
Whether instrumental or vocal cuts, the songs on Roth’s latest show a songwriter and player in command of his talents.
This article originally appeared in VG March 2018 issue. All copyrights are by the author and Vintage Guitar magazine. Unauthorized replication or use is strictly prohibited.
