Bob Brozman has made his name playing everything from the blues to Hawaiian music, old-timey Americana to Hot Club sounds. But above all, Brozman is a performer. His concerts are rowdy and alive – a musical pastiche highlighted by incredible musicianship.
Much of Brozman’s musical interests have been focused on National resonator guitars and the traditions they have either sparked or been a central part of.
Yet now, as he approaches 50, Brozman writes in the liner notes to Blues Reflex that he’s hearing all of his favorite music anew, with a deeper respect and more maturity. Hence, this new album.
The 13 tunes here are largely Brozman originals peppered with traditionals and a handful of blues by the likes of Charley Patton and Skip James. No matter – Brozman makes them all his own.
He plays an arsenal of guitars that reads like a dream list of cool; National tricone and baritone tricone, Weissenborn Hawaiian, Bear Creek baritone seven-string Hawaiian, Bear Creek Kona Rocket Hawaiian, Michael Dunn “Mystery Pacific” Selmer-style guitar, and much more. Layered atop each other, the tracks resonate with numerous exotic voices and gorgeous tone.
This article originally appeared in VG‘s May ’06 issue. All copyrights are by the author and Vintage Guitar magazine. Unauthorized replication or use is strictly prohibited.