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Randy Thompson, Further On, 2008 (Jackpot Records, Indie)
Clifton, VA based singer/songwriter Randy Thompson is set to release his third record Further On on March 25. Further On is an edifying blend of country and blues on which banjo rolls and devilish fiddle-playing act as a supporting role to driving swampy blues guitar. But the well-deserved spotlight on the record is Thompson's impressive warm and bassy vocal timbre, which will no doubt remind many of Americana favorite Kevin Welch. Indeed, fans of Kevin Welch (and Lucinda Williams) will find much to like here, as Thompson successfully draws from country, blues, and rock to create an outstanding Americana record. It should be noted that the outstanding slide guitar on "Don't You See" and "Goin' Down to Lynchburg Town" is played by Thompson's 16 year old son (15 at the time of the recording). These songs showcase the talent of Thompson's son, who has been winning blues guitar competitions all over the country the past few years. Indeed, Colin Thompson's tone is comparable to Warren Haynes and Derek Trucks, and it won't be long before he is a household name among fans of slide guitar. Further On is mostly an upbeat guitar-heavy record, but the pace slows on "Riptide," where anyone who might have doubted Thompson's vocal abilities will find themselves nodding in approval. An altogether great record, Further On should go down as one of the best Americana releases of 2008. — Vincent Wynne, March 15, 2008
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