Leslie West’s Soundcheck opens with a blurping synth and guitar on “Left By The Roadside To Die” with West yelling about being left down and out…but rising up to yell and shout that he’s still here. Once the drums come in, we get heavy power chords and slide playing, proving that Leslie West is indeed alive and well on his 16th studio release.
A piano-led bluesy version of Tracy Chapman’s “Give Me Just One Reason” is a perfect showcase for West’s pull-offs and high flights of fancy. It’s a real treat to see him untangle and reimagine this tune in this way. A cover of “You Are My Sunshine” is slow and sad featuring West and Peter Frampton trading guitar licks.
West’s take on Curtis Mayfield’s “People Get Ready” reminds me of the Rod Stewart and Jeff Beck’s version from the 1980s, with a cutting guitar line, soft organ and choppy snare. “Going Down” featuring Queen guitarist Brian May, along with singer Bonnie Bramlett, pianist Max Middleton, bassist David Hood and organist Bobby Whitlock, has West playing lead and growling a duet with Bramlett before May takes over.
Soundcheck closes with a 1998 live version of Willie Dixon’s “Spoonful,” with legendary bassist and vocalist Jack Bruce and drummer Joe Franco. This blistering rendition was recorded during an unannounced show Bruce and West played in a small club in New York. It’s a rough recording but the power of the trio is in no doubt. The dearly departed Bruce mines the low end and flies high with a stellar blues vocal. The end of the tune when all parties are speeding up to the jam is really special, showcasing one of those you-had-to-be-there moments.
Soundcheck has lots to offer in overall variety. Despite his much publicized health issues, Leslie West plays as well as ever and his voice sounds better than it has in years. And based on the guests who appear on the record, it seems West has lots of friends ready to lend their support any way they can.
~ Ralph Greco
