Tommy Castro’s “Closer to the Bone”

Tommy Castro – Closer to the Bone
Label: Alligator Records
Release date: February 2025
Can’t Miss Tracks: Can’t Catch a Break, Crazy Woman Blues, A Fool For You

Tommy Castro’s Closer to the Bone: A Raw, Authentic Return to Blues Roots

Tommy Castro, a seasoned blues and rock guitarist known for his fiery performances and deep blues roots, is back with his seventeenth album, Closer to the Bone. This is his eighth release on the renowned Alligator Records label, and it’s being hailed as his most authentic blues record yet. After a long career that spans over four decades, Castro’s latest offering is a 14-song journey that pays tribute to his musical heroes while showcasing his own songwriting prowess. With his band, The Painkillers, and a stellar lineup of guest musicians, Castro dives deep into the traditional blues that shaped his career.

A Life Steeped in Blues

Born in San Jose, California, Tommy Castro started playing guitar at just ten years old, inspired by the blues legends John Lee Hooker, Albert King, and Buddy Guy. Over the years, he has had an illustrious career, performing with various bands including the Warner Brothers’ band, The Dynatones, before forming the Tommy Castro Band in 1995. Castro’s big break came when his band was selected as the house band for NBC’s Comedy Showcase for three seasons, leading to their first album release. His achievements are vast, with ten Blues Music Awards, including the prestigious B.B. King Entertainer of the Year Award in 2023.

An Album That Returns to the Roots

In Closer to the Bone, Castro takes us back to the purest form of blues. He calls it “a real blues record, the way they would have made them back in the day.” The album was recorded live in the studio, capturing the raw energy of his performances. This is a far cry from the more eclectic style that Castro is known for; here, he strips everything down to deliver a no-frills, authentic blues experience.

Key Tracks and Influences

The album opens with Can’t Catch a Break, a song that captures the frustration and hardship of life, paired with an unforgettable horn section. The tone is set early: this is an album about raw emotions and gritty truths. Castro’s guitar work and soulful vocals shine as he reflects on life’s struggles, saying, “If love was water, my well has run dry.”

Castro continues the journey with a mix of original tracks and covers. A standout moment is his rendition of Johnny Nolan’s 1956 The Way You Do, which features Rick Estrin on harmonica. Another memorable cover is One More Night by Johnny “Nitro” Newman, a California blues legend. Castro plays a 1966 black Fender Stratocaster once owned by Nitro, paying homage to his musical roots.

The album also includes heartfelt originals like Crazy Woman Blues, a powerful track about a dangerous love that leaves the singer feeling like a fool. It’s a classic blues tale, with Castro’s guitar delivering all the passion and anguish you’d expect. Another standout original is Ain’t Worth the Headache, which features harmonica legend Billy Branch and drummer June Core, giving the track a deep, authentic blues feel.

Tribute to Blues Legends

Castro’s love for blues history is evident throughout Closer to the Bone. The album features covers of songs by his heroes, including the late Johnny “Guitar” Watson’s She Moves Me, Magic Slim’s Hole in the Wall, and Ron Thompson’s Freight Train (Let Me Ride). The latter, featuring Jim Pugh on piano, is a particularly fiery track, showcasing Castro’s blistering slide guitar. His rendition of Ray Charles’ A Fool for You is another highlight, a heartfelt tribute to one of the most influential voices in American music.

The Band Behind the Blues

While Tommy Castro is undeniably the star of the show, Closer to the Bone benefits from the tight, soulful backing of The Painkillers: Randy McDonald on bass, Mike Emerson on keyboards, and Bowen Brown on drums. The album also features a range of talented guest musicians, including harmonica virtuosos Rick Estrin and Billy Branch, saxophonists Deanna Bogart and Jack Sanford, and keyboard giant Jim Pugh. These contributions elevate the album to new heights, creating a truly collaborative blues experience.

A Joyful, Raucous Ride

Though Closer to the Bone is undeniably a blues album, it is not without its moments of fun and energy. Tracks like Keep Your Dog Inside, which features Deanna Bogart on vocals alongside Castro, offer a rollicking, joyful take on the blues. There are plenty of energetic solos, fiery guitar riffs, and moments of pure, unadulterated fun. The band’s performance on “Everywhere I Go” — a track written by McDonald but sung by Castro — is a perfect example of the group’s infectious energy and chemistry.

A Return to Form

For fans of Tommy Castro, Closer to the Bone is a long-awaited return to his blues roots. It’s an album that celebrates the genre’s timeless qualities while showcasing the depth of Castro’s artistry. As he says, “This album is the deeper blues side of me.” His blend of original songs and unique interpretations of blues classics makes Closer to the Bone a standout in his extensive catalog.

Final Thoughts

If you’re a fan of authentic blues, Closer to the Bone is a must-listen. With its raw energy, soulful performances, and tribute to the greats of the genre, it’s clear that Tommy Castro has crafted something special here. As one of the most respected names in modern blues, Castro proves once again why he is deserving of his accolades. For those who crave real blues, this is the album that delivers.

Closer to the Bone released on February 7, 2025. Get ready to experience the blues like never before.

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