Many a musician tries to reinvent himself with new ways of writing and playing,
sometimes confusing fans in the process. Pat Travers is not one of those musicians;
in fact, he’s come full circle, from 1979’s Go For What You Know
to 2008’s Stick With What You Know: Live In Europe. This
hard-rocking blues disc unfolds in true Pat Travers signature style, full of
big guitars, catchy riffs and good times. Recorded live at the Bosuil in Weert,
The Netherlands, Travers is joined by guitarist Kirk McKim, bassist Frank McDaniel
and drummer Eric Frates for a 13-song romp that includes newer titles mixed
with the classics.
“Life In London” is a bluesy little number that gets the concert
off to a nice and tight beginning. “Crash And Burn” receives a sizzling
tenderizing with some superb drum work from Frates. “I Don’t Care”
is driven by a big, low-end groove, and the radio-friendly “Elijah”
boasts a catchy hook and melody. The Jimi Hendrix classic “Red House”
gives Travers a chance to showcase his slide guitar abilities, while a bluesy
rendition of Albert King’s “Oh Pretty Woman” highlights McDaniel’s
bass playing.
One song that stands out is a 10-minute version of “Born Under A Bad
Sign,” another Albert King composition. The players extend the introduction,
building up the song as Travers solos away. Naturally, “Snortin’
Whiskey” and “Boom Boom (Out Go The Lights)” get the crowds
going as Travers and McKim play some blues-infused leads. The CD sounds fresh
and raw enough to make me recall the days of old when more artists like Pat
Travers would just plug in and let loose. If you’re a new fan, a veteran
or a classic hard rocker, Stick With What You Know: Live In Europe
packs enough juice to keep you rocking all night long.
~ Alex Jacard
