THE NAME DROPPERS – STARSHINE – ALBUM REVIEW

By Ralph Beauchamp

Blues kingpins, The Name Droppers have released their fourth full length entitled Starshine this past month. The band has constantly delivered strong tracks with dynamic songwriting and brazen arrangements. Starshine is no exception. The ten song album is full of glistening gems that encompass a wide variety of grooves. The record was produced by the illustrious Vic Steffens of the Horizon Music Group. In addition, a select group of lofty guest musicians filter throughout the album.

The Name Droppers are four superior players who have cut their teeth playing with the likes of Charlie Karp and Johnny Winter. Rafe Klein on guitar and vocals has a gutsy feel and his riffs and solos shine. Bobby “T” Torello on drums and vocals is a dream. His drumming has an elevated texture that carries the tunes to another level. Scott Spray on bass is superb. His bass beats are totally bombastic. Ron Rifkin on keys and piano is both captivating and shimmering. The Name Droppers are constantly on point and have stellar chemistry.

Starshine opens with the title track. “Starshine ” sets the tone for the entire disc. It has an easy cadence with Klein’s vocals having a melodic edge. The backing vocals deliver heavenly harmonies with guest vocalist, Simone Brown shining. Spray’s bassline is light and buoyant. Torello’s drums zip with an impressive lilt. “Sweet Little Angel” is up next. The tune is full of bluesy accents. Klein’s vocals are exuberant while Rifkin’s piano is spellbinding. The song is killer. “Whiskey” features Torello on vocals and his voice harbors raspy delights. Spray’s bass is flawless. The vibe is fun and whimsical.

“Shades Of Blue” is an intoxicating ballad full of flavor. Klein’s vocals are aurally emotive while Carole Sylvan’s backing vocals are an engaging plus. The entire track has a lush romantic ambiance. “I Died, You Cried” and “Can’t Take It With You” ensues and both songs are audacious. “Rotten Person” once again has “T” singing lead. The song is rocking and the lyrics are masterfully tongue-in-cheek.

The Beatle’s cover, “I Want To Hold Your Hand”, gets a new take. I think this is an older track as it features Charlie Karp on guitar. Nevertheless, the tune is strong and forceful. “Red Sea Blues” has an organic bluesy quality. Torello’s percussions flow with an intimate fabric while Rifkin’s organ adds an immersive depth. Klein’s vocals are sorrowfully brilliant and Spray’s bass hammers down a heartfelt backbeat. This is one compelling tune.

The Name Droppers end on a very high note. “Joy, Pain, Sky” is the perfect finish to a true piece of art. It distributes a unique soundscape with Klein’s vocals soaring with funky intonations. Once again, Simone Brown’s backing vocals raise the song into the stratosphere. The track also offers Dave Lowrie( (Piano) and Jonathan Dubose (Guitar) as exceptional guest musicians. The tune surrenders a sublime arrangement and vivid orchestration. “Joy, Pain, Sky” is definitely one of the lustrous jewels on Starshine.

The Name Droppers never disappoint. They are seasoned musicians who intrinsically understand how to compose amazing music. Starshine is the proof.

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