Method To My Madness

Do Tommy Castro and the Painkillers ever rest? Apparently not, since their latest CD release, ‘A Method to My Madness’ comes quickly on the heels of their last CD ‘The Devil You Know’. However, this CD release feels more stripped down , more soulful, more back to blues but with updated and current musical themes. The opening cut, ‘Common Ground’ sets a solid tone for the rest of the release with the band firing on all cylinders’ emphasizing powerful and enthusiastic vocals backed by a very solid rhythm section keeping a groove that demands a tapping foot or dancing on the floor. ‘I Must Have Died’ is a lovely slow blues number, while ’Two Hearts’, a medium tempo shuffle confirms the desired commonality of people expressed in the opening number, ‘Common Ground’. I find that many of the numbers coming from Blues artists today reflect what is happening in our society today. This CD is just as updated in its themes revealing the stress, the isolation of the individual and the way the government does or does not serve its constituents and the need for people to come together. ‘All About the Cash’ is a perfect example of this, a strong tune and probably one of my favorites on this release. Great lyrics, searing guitar work and a strong and supportive rhythm section. Tommy Castro’s “A Method to My Madness’, a 12 song, 50 minute CD continues his record of solid releases .

Great Music & an even better LIVE Performance!! Tommy Castro is such a joy to watch and listen to….while I miss the horns from the old days, he never disappoints and just keeps getting better and better!! This album proves it. If you get a chance to see him Live, DO IT!!