CD REVIEW: S/T by Black State Highway

S/T by Black State Highway
(Cherry Red Records)

Despite forming in Brighton, Black State Highway is powered by a handful of nationalities: Latvian singer Liva Steinberga, Scottish Bassist Gordon Duncan, English (with a touch of Deutch) guitarist Olie Trethewey, Ginger Drummer Harry Bland and Swedish Guitarist Yonnis Crampton. Black State Highway is a breath of fresh air in the rock world. Straight up Rock with Led Zep and Black Crows influences. The sound is like a fusion of rock classics spanning 50 years and is flawless with a fresh feel to it. Not a weak track to be found. Each song is delivered with attitude and swagger that comes from the gut and goes for the throat!  There is so much talent in this band that it's mind blowing. Singer Liva Steinberga  has one of the strongest and affecting voices I've ever heard. As she puts on display on tracks like, "Ain't Got No" and "Broken". Guitarists, Olie Trethewey and  Yonnis Crampton are monsters! Their tight chemistry can be heard throughout, especially on, "Free" and "Common Man". Drummer Harry Bland reminds me of Bill Ward, John Bonham and Michael Shrieve all rolled into one. Bassist Gordon Duncan is simultaneously heavy and melodic. And they play as a unit - amazingly! The alchemic reaction of Black State Highway creates on their debut is something totally new, yet comfortingly familiar. If you're looking for powerful songs that rock, performed by musicians who can actually play, fronted by a charismatic singer with stunning range with loads of attitude and soul- this is your band.- Highly Recommended
Tony @The Dedicated Rocker Society/All Access Magazine