Like a modern-day blues-rock liberator, Dave Kalz steps into blues-rock gold with his 2021 album Relish. Produced by and with Dave’s partner in crime, Mike Zito, the 11-track sizzles with a retro blues rock edge combining the late 1950’s Link Wray, ‘60s Hendrix with a mix of ZZ Top bringing it all up to date. Released on Texas-based Gulf Coast Records, Relish features the songs, vocals and electric guitar sound of Dave Kalz backed up by some excellent players, including his regular band and the like-minded guitar playing of Mike Zito and Tony Campanella.

Associated in the past and present with Devon Allman and his father Gregg Allman, Dave has really refined his skills and the result is a stunningly well-produced album of highly compelling blues, rock, jump-blues and more, all underlined by some contagious guitar-centric sounds. A jump-jazz instrumental “Coffee With Muffin” adds another interesting twist to the guitar fireworks. A most impressive album of blues-rock with a dynamic retro edge, Relish is an encouraging debut album by Milwaukee-area based Dave Kalz.