Words by Anselm Anderson
Jared James Nichols certainly produces magic with every strike of a six string. The axe slinger was born to be a star and after receiving his first guitar aged 14, soon found himself performing with greats like Buddy Guy. At 21, Nichols had performed over 500 gigs and has supported Lynyrd Skynyrd, Saxon, UFO and ZZ Top to name a few.
Black Magic is his second full album and it showcases his billing as the freshest guitar machine on the scene. It’s hard rock and bluesy with a mix of soul, funk and southern rock. Each song produces intricately woven riffs with finger splitting solos that makes you appreciate what a true rock sound demonstrates.
Nichols showcases his fine use of the pedal throughout, but none more than opener Last Chance with a frenetic, curdling screech that signals his intent. The standard remains high with memorable riffs on tracks like The Gun and Don’t Be Scared that exhibit Nichols strong vocal combined with a dirty bassline.
The album takes a trip through various genres with the funky Honey Forgive Me with soothing background vocals that also appear on Run and concludes with the slide guitar swagger of What Love.
This is pure rock ‘n’ roll Black Magic that will have a voodoo hold on you.
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