“I Am A Stone” departs from the overall tone of the album. It has a folky flavor infused with rock roots—although
there’s bluesy influences in the overall presentation. It’s a moody song—especially in Ms. Wright’s
interpretation of the track--with her Joplin-drenched voice lending a wanton wistfulness to the song.
“The Feeling Is Gone” is an upbeat blues song; straight-forward, direct and driving. The sax solo adds greatly to
overall ambiance of the track. “Piney Brown” is announced by a blazing blues harp—with Forrest picking up and
carrying the torch on the waves of his “straight from the gut” guitar playing—trading off licks…a blast of blissful
blues! “River Of Tears” is a soulful selection, changing up the pace in exactly the right place. Here, Wright
possesses almost a GLADYS KNIGHT quality to her voice, inspiring the listener to instinctually sway to this
smooth jam—a lovely and rich rendition, where Wright’s gutsy and gritty vocals reaches in and squeezes your
heart. “Take It To The Top” is a driving, pulsing track featuring Wright’s voracious vocals and more of Forrest’s
frenetically delicious guitar work.
“Till The Morning Light” rockets into the next track. This is a full-bodied song that
boasts the impact of a big band--and has the magnificent musicianship to back it up.
Closing off the album is bonus track, “Riding On The Blues Train”—causing one to ask
the question--”Did you get the number of that blues train that hit me?” Batten down
the hatches, folks—for it’s going to be a bumping and grinding ride!
What can be said that hasn’t already been spoken about Forrest McDonald? I won’t
try to match some of the platitudes and praise that this icon of the blues has had
bestowed upon him throughout the years. Instead—as is Forrest’s way—I’ll let his
work speak for itself. You can purchase “Stand My Ground” at the web site at
www.forrestmcdonald.com. And by all means, take a moment to show Forrest some
love at his Facebook page at www.facebook.com/Forrest-McDonald-Band-
1478474335701831. After all, he returns the favor every time he picks up his guitar.