Peter Parcek - News

Review: Blue Bytes

"Peter Parcek goes back to the 1960s, where his bands were influenced by that era’s blues/rockers like Eric Clapton, Peter Green, Jeff Beck, the Rolling Stones, and Pink Floyd. He previously served as sideman for bluesmen like Hubert Sumlin and Pinetop Perkins and the rock group The Singhs, before striking off on his own with the Peter Parcek Band and a duo project called Forty-Four. His latest release, The Mathematics Of Love (Redstar Entertainment/Vizztone), mixes the blues with rock, surf, country, jazz, and roots music. The result is an original and diverse set that will please guitar fans of any ilk.

Though Parcek incorporates many genres into his music, the blues is the source of it all. The opening track, Peter Green’s “Showbiz Blues,” kicks things off in fiery fashion. I like the clever lyrics and vaporous feel of the title track, and the lively instrumental, “Rollin’ With Zah” is just pure fun. Next up is Jessie Mae Hemphill’s “Lord, Help the Poor and Needy,” which is recreated with a thoroughly modern sheen.

An incendiary instrumental version of Lucinda Williams’ “Get Right With God” is next, followed by Parcek’s moody “Tears Like Diamonds.” I really like his animated interpretation of Mississippi Fred McDowell’s “Kokomo Me Baby,” which contrasts well with the mellow Delta groove of the following track, “New Year’s Eve” (with Ronnie Earl). Parcek pulls out all the stops on the instrumental take of Ray Charles’ “Busted,” which features Al Kooper on organ. A sparkling acoustic version of Cousin Joe’s “Evolution” closes things out.

Parcek gets great support from Steve Scully (drums), Marc Hickox (bass), Jimmy Ryan (mandolin), Dan Kellar (violin), Marty Ballou (upright bass), Earl, and Kooper. Guitar fans will absolutely love The Mathematics Of Love."

- Graham Clarke