After nearly 20 years as a performer,
Michael Burks
finally issued this debut disc, and his years of practical
blues
experience are evident on every track. While some of the guitar pyrotechnics may be more technique than substance, it cannot be denied that this fellow can tear up his ax. He sets the stakes on the muscular opener,
"Hit the Ground Running,"
and maintains the intensity level through moodier tunes like
"Beggin' Business."
While his vocals are not stellar, he has a rich, gritty quality to his singing that is nicely matched to his guitar playing. ~ Tim Sheridan