Comprising of ten original compositions, ‘Back From The Edge’ is the latest release from Minnesota-based bluesman Mark Cameron. Active in the music scene for over thirty years, this latest release shows that Cameron is an artist who still produces music that is fresh, fun, and vibrant.
Funky guitar riffs and blues harmonica abound on ‘It’s Alright’ as the song takes a swipe at commercialism. Cameron’s satirical take on life and consumerism shines on the Chicago blues-based, horn-filled ‘One Size Fits All’. Horns and harmonica again sweep and soar on ‘This Is The Blues’, while Cameron’s guitar playing is sweet and soulful, always playing just enough, never overcooking the solos.
‘Back From The Edge’ veers off into melodic rock territory with a harmony-driven chorus and hard-hitting lyrics that are full of social commentary, showing an awareness in Cameron’s songwriting that’s as sharp as his guitar playing. Shifting back down the gears, the brooding hypnotic rhythm of ‘Dollar For Liquor’ leads the listener into a tale about musicians and alcohol.
Rounding out the album the quirky ‘Lost And Found’, one that perhaps owes more to the sound of English pop bands in the 1960s. With its pop-based beat, flute solo, and upbeat melody, it harks back to the sound of Manfred Mann.
‘Back From the Edge’ is an infectious, toe-tapping, blues rock album that puts fun and melody back into the blues.