Three Kings

Three Kings is a Melbourne-based blues and American roots band that has blown away critics and listeners with their authentic blues sound. In their website, their bio states; “The  Three Kings sound like an old 45 found in the bottom of an abandoned shed. So real you can practically hear the record crackle and the needle pop when they are onstage.” Honestly, I’d have to agree, it does sound like it’s straight from a period dance, with ruffled high-waisted skirts flying to the fresh beats pumping from the jukebox in an American Milkbar. Not that I was ever there to do that sort of thing of course. Yet, this music makes me want to go there.

There’s nothing much I can say about this album. Well, nothing negative anyway. I enjoy this three-piece band and how each member flaunts his talent by supporting the band, rather than trying to stand out for the spotlight. Their solos are well-placed, really solid and actually rather impressive, especially in the tune “You Got Me Nervous”. With Benny Peters and Ian Collard on Vocals and Guitar, the tracks have a rustic air of what seems to me to be a sepia atmosphere. Their husky, rusty voices just do that for me. Ian Collard’s harmonica is an impressive sound. It just makes me want to jive, he’s got the American roots genre genuinely downpat. Jason Liusoon on drums provides the perfect support, slowing the pace or ramping it up for the pending solos. For example, “Swamp Time” is the soundtrack to a stream train as it rattles along, while “Drink It Up” speeds up the tempo a little and is just wonderful to boogie to. These guys are genuine and authentic and, I highly recommend them.

Image Source: http://threekingsaustralia.com/photos