The Delta Generators don't mess around - three snare hits, and it's straight into the wailing harmonica that announces a straight-ahead modern blues band. Later, the guys tip their hat to Bo Diddley with “Field and Plough”. The track is simple and raw with a mean slide guitar solo. With “Someday” the Delta Generators show a soulful side and a strength of song writing so often missing in other bands. It also gives vocalist Craig Rawding the chance to really show the range of his talent. Another song where the writing is of high standard is “Let the Boy Down Easy”, which has a slow, lazy pace and a middle eight – how many straight blues bands have even heard of one? Whether it’s the driving shuffle beat of “Don’t Uncork the Bottle” or the funky, razor sharp riff of “Too Many Cooks”, these guys prove track after track that they aren’t one trick ponies.
The production can’t be faulted. Everything is clear and given its proper place in the mix. While the arrangements, over all, are simple and no nonsense, “Give Me Some” shows a nice touch with some backing vocals which remind me of Robert Plant.
Hard River to Row is not just a run-of-the-mill Southern Blues CD. I can't think of a blues CD which I’ve reviewed which has as many memorable, and singable, hooks. Even the casual listener won’t be able to resist the quality of writing which elevates these guys way beyond the norm. The playing is top class and sounds like a band who are having fun, and even better, they are inviting you to join them.