An exceptional outing for guitarist/vocalist Bill Perry. A New York blues player, Perry spent several years working as Richie Havens’ lead guitarist, and Havens guests on Crazy Kind of Life, delivering a beautiful vocal on the Jagger/Richard tune “No Expectations.” Perry has definitely hit his stride as a solo artist. His vocal work is steady and rugged enough to deliver his blues message. His guitar work on these tracks is powerful and incisive, and he plays with a wise economy. Perry shows a very cool slide guitar touch on the rumbling boogie blues number “Trouble in the Shotgun,” both comping and trading hard-hitting solos with harmonica boss Chris O’Leary. Perry penned several original tunes as well and hits the sweet spot with the tasty jump blues “She’s Too Hot” and the gospel-flavored instrumental “Morning Spiritual.”-PVV