Blues Traveler – 鈥楽uzie Cracks the Whip鈥�
The New York blues-rock band follows the release of 2008’s lackluster “North Hollywood Shootout” with a return to the vintage sound of the band’s breakout album “Four.” I confess that I jumped on the fan bandwagon with the 1994 album that featured the Grammy-winning single “Run-Around” and follow-up hit “Hook.”
“You Don’t Have to Love Me” opens the album with a catchy pop sensibility and John Popper’s distinctive harmonica playing.
“Recognize My Friend” follows with an infectious melody filled with energy and toe-tapping appeal.
“Suzie Cracks the Whip” is Blues Traveler’s 11th studio album and marks the band’s 25th anniversary.
A fresh perspective is displayed on the new material as Popper solicits the aid of a few outside writers. Canadian singer-songwriter Ron Sexsmith contributes on “Recognize My Friend,” “Devil in the Details,” “Things Are Looking Up” and “Love Is Everything (That I Describe).”
Longtime friend Chris Barron of the Spin Doctors pens the electric infused “Saving Grace.” The highlight of the newly crafted material is delivered by singer-songwriter Carrie Rodriquez and Popper on “I Don’t Wanna Go,” featuring Crystal Bowersox from “American Idol” joining Popper for a soulfully sweeping arrangement that is easily one of the best selections from any of the band’s albums.
Bringing things to a tender close is the stripped-down ballad “Cara Let the Moon” with Popper offering a nostalgic nod to Don McLean’s “American Pie.” Suzie may be cracking the whip, but it’s Popper who pulls the proper strings as Blues Traveler continues to hit all the right notes.