King of the World : Connected Review

King of the World is a soulful European blues band that has a sound that combines roots rock and blues, which has kept them on top of the European roots scene for many years. The band is now releasing a full album of new material called Connected. The album marks the first appearance of guitarist Stef Delbaere, who also helped write the original content. Besides having a four-album catalog preceding the new release, they also have an excellent live reputation built through shows at Festivals all over Europe, the Netherland, Belgium, Germany, Austria, Switzerland, and the Czech Republic. The group has won multiple Dutch Blues Awards over the last years, best drummer, best keyboard player, best bass player (three times), best guitarist and best blues band. Connected is an energetic set that furthers the band’s modern approach to blues and rhythm & roots.

“Love Don’t Come From You” is the start of the set. With a bluesy riff, full organ sounds, and a deep backbeat, bassist and vocalist Ruud Weber lays down the melody. His voice is gravelly and deep with emotion. The band has tight vocal harmonies, which is always a plus. Stef Delbaere’s guitar solo is bluesy with a touch of rock. The band has spent time getting the song to have various sections that keep the music evolving. Govert van der Kolm spins out a fantastic organ solo. The lyrics are well-written, and it is easy to hear why this is an award-winning band.

“Connected” brings the band’s talent focused on a blues shuffle. The lyric rich melody has an engaging storyline. The song switches to a beautiful half-time feel for the bridge, again, King of the World spends the time to make their songs have a lot of twist and turns. Delbaere tears up the fret wires on this one. The feel is deep, and the riff is memorable. The band has new energy with the addition of Delbaere, and it is hitting all the right spots.

Connected is a collection of well-written songs and lyrics. The band focuses on catchy melodies and memorable song forms with sharp riffs and hooks. Delbaere’s guitar work is an excellent addition to the band. There is variance in feels, tempos, and styles, which makes for exciting. King of the World is sure to hit all the marks for blues fans and roots music lovers too.

King Of The World: Website