From out of nowhere comes another great find from planet Peacedogman: LANCE LOPEZ! This is the bluesy, funky guitar heavy rock that I had been craving, but thought was extinct. Think KENNY WAYNE SHEPHERD minus all the BS songwriting aimed at FM rock radio airplay. Actually, the KWS equation isn’t entirely accurate. I scratched my head at all the comparisons I was making as the disc spun. CLUTCH? LIVING COLOUR? HENDRIX? LED ZEP? JAMES BROWN? PRINCE? It’s all in there, dude.

“Day of Dreams” starts the disc out with an explosion of sound, as a fanfare of phased guitar/drum effects signal the beginning of what guarantees to be an enjoyable listening experience. It doesn’t take long for that bluesy vibe to set in. LL’s rhythm section is all pocket, supplying the perfect foot tappin’ back beat for Mr. Lopez’ six string heroics. Just listen to the title track, as the band wastes no time going for the jugular in the heaviest groove this side of Bonham. The front of your brain will be bruised from all the head-bobbin’ goin’ on. Lance’s talent doesn’t solely lie on the fretboard, either. I’m certain many strippers have been wooed back to the Lopez abode by his deep, laid-back, soulful vocal delivery.

Whenever these cats delve into a different style, it makes sense. Tracks “Move,” “Shake Joint” and “Tricktafied” bring the funk in a major way, but every song still sounds like it’s coming from the same group of guys. Not so easy to do, as I’m sure any musician can tell ya.

If you’re a fan of any of the artists mentioned, you should really give LL a shot. Put this one on, fire up the lava lamp as you enjoy your favorite alcoholic beverage and/or inhalant, and get ready to have your vision simplified!

- Broadbent

OFFICIAL SITE: myspace.com/lancelopez

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