Anthony Gomes : Containment Blues Review

Anthony Gomes is a rock blues guitarist, vocalist, and songwriter sweeping the blues community with his high-energy shows and dynamic guitar playing and singing. Now the #1 Billboard Blues Artist is releasing a new record called Containment Blues. The Toronto born bluesman presents eleven songs that are creative and well-written. Gomes states, “My goal is to keep the Blues fresh, exciting and even dangerous. I want to bring back the thrill longtime Bluesmen created in their day. At the same time, I think it’s very important for the music to grow and evolve.” He has performed with B.B. King, Buddy Guy, Robert Plant, Heart, Sammy Hagar, Joe Bonamassa, .38 Special, Jonny Lang, Robert Cray, and Kenny Wayne Shepherd.

“Make a Good Man (Wanna Be Bad)” opens with an energetic shuffle feel. Gomes’ vocals are rich with character, and his tone is bluesy and smokey. The guitar playing is terrific; his tone and feel is a rugged blend of blues and rock. The band is rock solid, and everything is recorded and mixed to perfection. The slide guitar sounds for the bridge gives depth to the song. Gomes is an outstanding blues vocalist.

“Hell and Half of Georgia” is a highlight on the album. Gomes’ vocals are robust, bluesy and has just the right amount of strain to give it character. The acoustic guitar adds a variance of sound, but the electric guitar fills still give the song bite. Gomes’ songwriting is based on the blues, but even he manages to expand the traditional blues heritage’s sounds and forms.

Gomes delivers an enjoyable set of music; there are plenty of styles, tempos, sounds, and storylines to keep the music flowing. His songwriting, singing, and guitar playing are all unique and unquestionably based on the blues-rock sounds. Blues fans and rock fans will find much to enjoy in Containment Blues.