Still Not Talkin'

Album Review

Pennsylvania guitarist Johnny Roth — not to be confused with John Roth of the '80s hair band Winger — serves up seven tracks of instrumental blues with a rock edge on his debut CD, a definite keeper. Roth's influences are no secret here: his tone and phrasing often echo Robben Ford's, particularly on the title track (a reference to his shy nature). A good dose of well-executed slide weaves through the tunes, often serving as a nod to Duane Allman. "Demoman" is proof positive that even though he adds an edge and brings his own voice to the blues, Roth has put in his time studying the masters of the genre. Plop Freddie King into the here and now, and this is a song he might pen. The songs here — at times spiced with a little jazz and funk — are catchy and memorable, and the playing ranks right up there with any number of today's better-known guitar heroes. Guitar aficionados will love Roth's bold tone and clean playing, but they may also find fault with the disc: it's too short.