Album Review: Chasin’ the Train – Dead Man’s Handle (Self Released)

Chasin’ The Train describe their music as: “… blues with style, taste and cojones”. The five members have all been involved in playing a wide variety of musical styles in different bands over their long careers, but have been working together since early 2014 and are united by their love of out-of-the-ordinary blues tunes.

They released their debut album, ‘Dead Man’s Handle’, on Friday 3rd April 2020 – it’s available digitally across a number of download stores and streaming services, as well as in a CD format featuring two bonus tracks and a 12-page booklet with lyrics.

What a great album this is. The Dumfries (South-West Scotland) mob delivering 100% on the promise of stylish and tasteful blues-infused rock.

Bands looking to draw from the Southern, whiskey-soaked greats have a habit of either not throwing their all into it or going too far and sounding like a tribute band. That’s not the case with Chasin’ the Train who absolutely nail the balance.

Be it the high energy of Beat Up Ford (such a sing-along) to the foot-tapping Fwpb and dusty twang of Temporary Man, the first third of Dead Man’s Handle is quality.

Talking about catchy tunes though…Down Home is a personal favourite with top melody. Although the guitar groove and weathered vocals of Whiskey Bottle don’t half come close.

If there’s one track that maybe doesn’t quite land, it’s Too Much Sugar as the rockabilly beat is just ok. However, it is short (1:45) so hardly a problem and there are no drops in excellence within the final 3 tracks.

Exit Wounds is nice and mellow (love the harmonica here), No Blues is weighted towards the rock side of the band and Don’t You Lie to Me is guitar strumming and plucking heaven. A very memorable end to one of the highlights of 2020 and modern blues-rock in general.

Chasin’ the Train – Dead Man’s Handle Full Track Listing:

1. Beat Up Ford
2. Fwpb
3. Temporary Man
4. Down Home
5. Whiskey Bottle
6. Too Much Sugar
7. Exit Wounds
8. No Blues
9. Don’t You Lie to Me

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