Thorbjørn Risager And The Black Tornado’s House Of Sticks is a dynamic exploration of blues that’s both primal and evocative. From the very start, the album strikes a sinister tone with the ominous horns and jazz-infused keys on the title track, drawing you into a world that feels eerie yet captivating. The hook in “Hold On” may urge you not to leave, but the album’s richness might make you want to stick around for more.
Risager’s exceptional guitar playing is a constant highlight, especially on tracks like “Already Gone,” where his skill is on full display. He’s clearly someone who enjoys experimenting with the blues formula, and it pays off. “Light Of Your Love” offers a smooth soul vibe, complemented by some beautifully crafted guitar lines, while “Long Time Ago” features percussion that would make Mark Knopfler proud, perfectly backing the track’s rhythm and adding a fresh twist to the blues.
“Said I Was Hurt” showcases Risager’s ability to bring a new light to familiar blues territory, while “Inner Light” brings in a funky groove that adds another layer of depth to the album. The slide guitar on “We’ll Get By” is nothing short of gorgeous, exuding a warmth that tugs at the heartstrings.
What’s most impressive is the band’s ability to switch tempos within songs, keeping listeners on their toes. “Out Of The Rain” is particularly exquisite in this regard, offering a beautifully executed shift in pace. Throughout the album, there’s a pulsing energy that’s hard to ignore, especially in “I Climbed A Mountain,” which builds to exhilarating heights.
Ending with “Fine Summer Night,” House Of Sticks closes on a note of serene calm, offering a chilled, sun-dappled contrast to the intensity that came before. This album is a stunning collection of contrasts, showing off Risager’s mastery of guitar, his band’s versatility, and their knack for blending genres into something wholly unique.
Rating 8/10
