The Hoax - Big City Blues (2013)

01. Hipslicker (4:17)
02. Big City Blues (4:45)
03. Let It Shine (4:20)
04. Stick Around (4:30)
05. Can't Do Right For Doing Wrong (4:08)
06. Two Steps Back (5:51)
07. Keep On Messin' (4:02)
08. Talk Is Cheap (3:16)
09. Roll On Up (4:21)
10. Give Me A Drink (5:33)
11. Tes Nuits Insolits (3:49)
12. Pledge Giver Blues (7:07)

Hugh Coltman (vocals and harmonica) 
Jesse Davey (lead and rhythm guitar) 
Jon Amor (lead and rhythm guitar) 
Robin Davey (bass) Mark Barrett (drums)

The humble shores of Great Britain may not be the first place that springs to mind when thinking of legends within the blues genre, however it certainly offers up some musical delights every so often. The latest being the album Big City Blues by rejuvenated ensemble, The Hoax. The band splintered and went their respective ways over 10 years ago, but after a fiery reunion in 2010, a series of blistering gigs and a collection of fan funds they returned to the studio.

“Hipslicker” is the first track off the compilation. It’s good to know The Hoax are still on form and have not lost their edge. The fuzzy guitar rhythm and croaky vocals make a catchy tune. There is plenty of zest on the album, tracks like “Big City Blues” and “Keep On Messin’” are full of heel tapping fun.

As well as the hard-hitting tunes the band demonstrate their ability to dull the pace and produce something more sensual, whilst keeping that intensity. “Two Steps Back” does just that. Another song of mention should be “Tes Nuits Insolits” and the French flavored melodies that give the album a bit of variety.

The Hoax have done what the fans hoped for. They have produced a well-trimmed, punchy record that proves there is blues rock alive and kicking in the UK. A solid performance. --- George Ward, bluesrockreview.com

There is a nice range in dirty blues rock styles exhibited on this album. They draw on influences from from classic British blues, like Free and Humble Pie, to Texas Blues like the Fabulous Thunderbirds, to 21st Century garage rock. All of this is handled with a good sense of balance that preserves the integrity of their songs. They rock hard, without over playing. ---Dayrocker, amazon.com

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