Lew Lewis & his All Star Trio – It’s All Changed
Moondog Music – mooncd2602 [2026]
It’s All Changed – Fine Lookin’ Lady – This Is How I Feel – Broken – Drive You Insane – Live Each Day – When I’m With You – Love Some More – You’re The One For Me – How Could You Love Me – Yes Indeed
Just like that, out of the blue, Lew Lewis’s new album appeared in my CD player. And believe me, it had been a long time since I’d heard traditional rockabilly this fresh, lively, and melodic. In many ways, this record reminds me of the early albums of Big Sandy and the Fly Rite Trio.
Lew Lewis wrote all the tracks on this album and chose some top-notch musicians to accompany him. On guitar, we have Dragon Zac Zdravkovic (Jive Romeros, Hepchaps, Diamond Daddio’s), who skillfully blends the styles of Scotty Moore and Cliff Gallup with a touch of Buddy Holly, all sprinkled with jazz riffs, in the manner of TK Smith (we’re back to Big Sandy). The rhythm section consists of Kieran King on double bass and Les Curtis (Bob and the Bearcats, Darrel Higham, Kid Rocker) on drums.
The album kicks off with a bang with the highly melodic, Buddy Holly-esque “It’s All Changed.” This is followed by two flamboyant rockabilly tracks where Lewis’s elegant and clear vocals shine. Broken cleverly blends two guitar textures, one high-pitched over a Rumba rhythm, answered by a twangier baritone guitar. “Drive You Insane” is also superbly served by Zdravkovic’s guitar, which echoes Grady Martin’s style. Next comes “Live Each Day.” With lyrics like “Live each day like it’s your last,” one might expect a somber atmosphere, but Lewis opts for a lighthearted feel, revealing the positive side of his message. “When I’m With You” is a tense rocker, while “Love Some More” draws its inspiration from the famous Diddley beat. An uncredited harmonica player joins the group on this track. You’re The One For Me isn’t the most original track on the album, but let’s not be too picky; it’s undeniably catchy. Much more interesting is How Could You Love Me, which leans towards Hillbilly supported by a discreet steel guitar.
The album closes with the wild Yes Indeed, which leaves the listener reeling but eager for more. A perfect way to conclude a perfect album.
Fred “Virgil” Turgis
