Beth Hart & Joe Bonamassa

1,339

5 Stars

Audio CD (paid link)

Black Coffee is Beth Hart and Joe Bonamassa’s third studio album, the first being ‘Don’t Explain’ in 2011, then we had ‘Seesaw’ in 2013, followed by this beauty in January 2018, ‘Black Coffee.’ They are all cover albums, but don’t for one second let that put you off. They also have a sensational live double album called ‘Live in Amsterdam 2014.’

Having hit the ground running with his debut album, ‘A New Day Yesterday in 2000,’ Joe Bonamassa has become the most prolific artist in the world of rock music. Having released some twelve studio solo albums, four albums in collaboration with other artists, at least fifteen live albums, too many compilations to count, various DVD’s, released albums plus, whilst a full time member of bands such as ‘Black Country Communion,’ four studio albums and one live album, and one studio album with both ‘Rock Candy Fab Party’ and ‘Bloodline.’

*Joe Bonamassa has become the most prolific artist in the world of rock music.*

In between he has made major contributions to at least 47 other albums! I hate to add that he has a very heavy tour schedule too. Apart from being on the road with his own solo band, he has been working with the likes of Eric Clapton, Stephen Stills, Buddy Guy, Stevie Winwood and Warren Haynes. When does he sleep? To make it all the more miraculous there has never been a drop in quality. The man is only just 40.

By Comparison, Beth Hart is just a beginner having only released nine solo albums since her debut ‘Immortal’ in 1996.

*Beth Hart has released nine solo albums since her debut ‘Immortal’ in 1996.*

But on this album they are equals. What an album it is, too. Having been living with it for a week, I would say it is the finest thing either of them have done. A major statement, I know, for such well established artists, but please have a listen before making up your own mind.

The selection of songs is inspired, and impressive, before you hear a note. Such diverse artists as Edgar Winter, Kansas Joe McCoy, and Walter Vinison have had the treatment.

The album starts with ‘Give It Everything You Got’ and as the title suggests that’s exactly what they do. Opening up with some distorted heavy rock guitar from Joe Bonamassa before the bass, drums and horn section come crashing in, followed by some euphoric Beth Hart vocal stylings.

This whole album may have Beth Hart and Joe Bonamassa’s name on the cover, but when they are all playing together it sounds like a really closely knit band. Although there is still room for Joe Bonamassa to let fly with some incredible soloing as on the opening track, as well as Joy and Lullaby of the ‘Leaves’ to name three jaw dropping solos. Beth Hart steals the show on most songs, purely because she is just such a good and versatile vocalist. Probably the best on the planet at the moment.

‘Humble Pie’ with Steve Marriot, I had always thought did the definitive version of Ike and Tina Turner’s ‘Black Coffee’ on their album Smokin’ (1972). Not any more. These guys have nailed ‘Black Coffee’. Great video to go with it too.