Band Of Joy is not only the title of Robert Plant's new album, it's also the name of the group both he and John Bonham formed before hooking up with Led Zeppelin. Band Of Joy is flowing free with inviting sounds of American music including those of the blues, and there are many fine songs that have been covered here.
Robert Plant has assembled quite a competent list of musicians with Band Of Joy's line-up that includes Buddy Miller, who produced the album along with Robert. Buddy is heard on electric guitar, baritone, 6 string bass and mando guitar, vocalist Patty Griffin, Darrel Scott plays mandolin, octave mandolin, banjos, acoustic guitar, accordion, pedal steel and lap steel guitar. Byron House is on the bass and Marco Giovino looks after percussion and drums, and they all have no trouble performing the selected material.
Band Of Joy sounds very much like a group effort not just merely a solo album focusing on a legendary singer. "Angel Dance" a track originally by American band Los Lobos makes for an easy grooving starter. Other top songs include Band Of Joy's sole original and banjo/acoustic guitar fueled "Central Two-O-Nine" a track which is a lot of fun and the slower "Silver Ride" a captivating number from the indie rock band Low where Robert Plant and Patty Griffin's vocals really impress.
Band Of Joy takes you on a charming journey with some wonderful music and vocals, Robert Plant has yet another winner to his name.
Track list:
1. Angel Dance
2. House Of Cards
3. Central Two-O-Nine
4. Silver Rider
5. You Can't Buy My Love
6. Falling In Love Again
7. The Only Sound That Matters
8. Monkey
9. Cindy, I'll Marry You Someday
10. Harm's Swift Way
11. Satan Your Kingdom Must Come Down
12. Even This Shall Pass Away