Album: Wailin’ In Vienna, December 2024
Can’t Miss Tracks: Travelin’ man, You quit this game too soon, Let’s have a good time, Save your worries
Label: continentalrecordservices
For over three decades, German blues guitarist Kai Strauss has been a respected name in the European blues scene. With a deep understanding of the genre’s roots and a passion for keeping the spirit of classic blues alive, his latest album, Wailin’ in Vienna, marks a return to the traditional sounds that shaped his musical journey. This album isn’t just another collection of blues tunes; it’s a heartfelt homage to the golden age of blues. A celebration of the 1950s sound, and a testament to Strauss’ dedication to preserving the genre while adding his own modern spin.
A Dream Realized
For Strauss, Wailin’ in Vienna was a long-standing dream finally coming to life. “This album was something I had planned for a long time,” Strauss explains. The result is a vibrant, 15-track album featuring original compositions that capture the essence of the 1950s blues scene. Strauss wrote the lyrics for the album in a concentrated, creative flow over just 6-8 weeks, and the result is an album that feels as fresh and timeless as the era it honors.
One of the unique aspects of Wailin’ in Vienna is the collaboration with two of Strauss’ personal blues heroes: Rusty Zinn and Alex Schultz. For any musician, working alongside icons they grew up listening to is a dream come true, but for Strauss, the experience was more than just about playing music together. “It felt special to record with musicians I learned from when I was in my twenties,” Strauss reflects. “But the biggest lesson was the sense of connection that grew beyond just the music itself.”
A Classic Sound, Captured Live
Recording Wailin’ in Vienna took place in a cozy, intimate studio in Vienna, which set the perfect mood for capturing the live energy of traditional blues. The studio setup was simple yet effective – musicians gathered in the same room while Strauss played his amp in a stairwell to create a unique, vintage sound. The result is an album that feels raw, unpolished, and full of life.
In addition to Zinn and Schultz, Strauss was joined by a talented ensemble of musicians: Dani Gugolz and Peter Müller on bass and drums, pianists Dave Ruosch, Andreas Sobczyk, and Christian Dozzler, as well as Sax Gordon, whose saxophone adds a rich layer to the album’s sound. Austrian harmonica ace Gerry Lülik also lent his skills, elevating the overall vibe. While the horns were recorded in the USA for logistical reasons, the tracks maintain a cohesive, authentic sound that is true to the spirit of 1950s blues.
Embracing the Freedom of Originality
In an era where cover albums are common, Strauss made the bold decision to write his own songs for this project. “I always prefer recording original songs and the musical freedom that comes with it,” he shares. This decision is evident throughout the album. The lyrics stay true to the themes of classic blues—love, loss, life on the road, and the highs and lows of everyday life. Tracks like “Cooking for My Baby” offer a lighthearted, playful vibe, while others like “You Quit This Game Too Soon” and “Slow Roast” delve into more introspective territory.
Strauss’ ability to evoke the sounds and emotions of traditional blues is impressive. His guitar work stands at the forefront of each track, whether he’s channeling the Chicago blues vibes of Muddy Waters and Jimmy Rogers on “Travelin’ Man” or leading the charge in more upbeat tracks like “Old Fashioned Daddy”. Each song on the album is a journey, taking the listener through different facets of blues, from soulful ballads to foot-stomping anthems.
An Album that Celebrates the Blues
The album opens with “Old Fashioned Daddy”, an energetic tune that sets the tone with its nostalgic vibe and catchy rhythm. The following track, “5$ Shake”, is a playful tune that shows off the chemistry between the musicians. As the album progresses, tracks like “Stranded” and “Sweet and Salty” showcase the emotional depth of the music, with saxophone and guitar solos that will send chills down your spine.
The title track, “Wailin’ in Vienna”, is a short yet impactful shout-out to the city’s rich musical culture. In contrast, “Save Your Worries” provides a much-needed moment of relaxation with its smooth, feel-good message. Meanwhile, “Cooking for My Baby” is a fun, lighthearted tune that brings some playful humor into the mix.
As the album closes with “Three Bells in a Row”, a jazzy, mellow tune that exudes lounge vibes, you’re left with the sense that Wailin’ in Vienna is more than just an album. It’s a journey back in time. A celebration of the blues’ timeless appeal, and a testament to the enduring influence of the genre.
A Monument to the Blues
For Strauss, Wailin’ in Vienna represents more than just a musical project. It’s a personal tribute to the blues legends who shaped his career. The album is a carefully crafted monument to the 1950s and early 1960s sound, an era that continues to inspire him to this day. Even though the album is a departure from the style of his Electric Blues All Stars, Strauss assures fans that this is simply a detour into a different musical realm. His signature style, blending tradition with modernity, is still very much alive in his other work.
The international lineup of musicians, including Zinn, Schultz, and Sax Gordon, brings the album to life with fiery guitar duels and saxophone flourishes that recall the greatest moments of blues history. From the smoky bars of Chicago to the warm, welcoming atmosphere of Vienna, Wailin’ in Vienna perfectly captures the magic of traditional blues, delivered with a freshness and energy that only a seasoned artist like Kai Strauss can provide.
Whether you’re a die-hard blues purist or a newcomer to the genre, Wailin’ in Vienna offers something for everyone. It’s a masterclass in how to keep the spirit of the past alive while adding new layers to the music that has stood the test of time. If you haven’t already, take the time to experience this album. A true love letter to the blues that will continue to resonate for years to come.
