Brian Templeton’s muscular vocals are the focal point of a group identity both convincingly tradition-bound and contemporarily fresh sounding; the latter trait further attributable to his smart lyric crafting.  The former is the work of all present here, resulting in a formidable four-piece sound.  Standing out in a slouch-free set are a relentless shuffle- “Poker Face”, a fierce hoodoo rocker- “Baby Bomb” and a knockout slow blues- “Ginny Mae”.  Props to guitarist Charlie O’Neal, particularly for some searing slide and the blues-savvy rhythm section- bassist Rick O’Neal and drummer Jeff Armstrong.  A Best of Year candidate.