It's been a long time since we've heard anything new from the Climax Bluesband. The current lineup, which after numerous changes no longer includes any founding members, finally gives a musical sign of life with "Hands Of Time," featuring new songs and continuing the band's over 50-year history. The band returns to its tried-and-tested instrumental structure and its signature groove. The charismatic frontman, Graham Dee, captivates the listener with his compelling, slightly raspy, yet very clear voice. The tracks mostly feature clear rhythmic structures, ranging from blues to rock, sometimes with soulful influences, and generally at a mid-tempo pace. Interspersed are a few ballads that can transport the listener to a dreamy state and further demonstrate the expressiveness of Dee's voice. The foundation for the tight sound is laid by Neil Simpson on bass and Roy Adams on drums, both of whom have been with the band for over 30 years.
The band's founding members, Lester Hunt on guitar and George Glover on keyboards, bring a special touch to their unmistakable sound. Hunt, with his rhythmic groundwork and clearly played, interspersed solos, eschews unnecessary frills, preferring clean tones, while Glover not only underpins the songs with rich soundscapes but also impresses with furious and sensitive lead work on keyboards and piano. However, the aforementioned Graham Dee on vocals and Chris Aldridge on saxophone and harmonica, who joined the band in 2012, have certainly breathed new life into the group. Aldridge, with his powerful saxophone solos, is at times a perfect partner for Hunt on guitar. Refreshing songwriting, rooted in the band's history, has revitalized the Climax Blues Band, harking back to their former glory and sure to appeal to more than just their die-hard fans.
With "Hands Of Time," the band has certainly delivered an impressively diverse album without any musical filler, demonstrating the band's musical strength and proving that they're determined to get going again. Purchasing the new album will certainly shorten the fans' wait for an upcoming tour and will likely even increase their eager anticipation.
