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Reviewed by Stu Edwards

Davey Beige: Hard Work EP

Reviewed by Stu Edwards

Davey Beige: Hard Work EP

Music educator, former-NZ Musician guitar columnist and Kiwi bluesman Davey Beige (Dave Bishop) dishes up four fresh tracks with this follow up to his debut EP titled ‘Fold In Two’. Beige’s diversity delivers wide appeal over the short playlist. From the Texas blues shuffle of Back Road To Vegas to the brooding ballad Leather Tongue Motel, the four songs are spacious and thought provoking.

Injecting originality to the blues is a tall order but Beige’s evolving arrangements manage it successfully. House By The Highway is mid-tempo raw shuffle that showcases the EP’s simplistic approach to instrument placement in the mix. Beige’s guitar playing, while subtle and smooth, packs an angry punch where needed. While his vocals are delivered in a true Kiwi style, this is part of the appeal of this release. Midge Marsden’s harp playing is a welcome addition to the opening track, and production guru Zed Brookes involvement ensures a quality listen.

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