History
Howling Diablos: A Resurgence of Raw Blues and Rock Energy
The 'Car Wash' Album: A Modern Blues Masterpiece
The Howling Diablos' album 'Car Wash' has emerged as a significant release, quickly garnering attention with airplay on 80 college radio stations nationwide. Legendary artist Al Kooper lauded the album with a concise endorsement, stating, "Car Wash rules." Bandleader, lead singer, and guitarist Tino Gross described 'Car Wash' as a continuation of his work producing R.L. Burnside's album the previous year. That project ingeniously fused the driving intensity of Holly Springs-style Mississippi hill country blues with contemporary hip-hop elements, resulting in a modern classic. Inspired by blues icon R.L. Burnside, Gross felt compelled to create 'Car Wash'. This recording positions the Howling Diablos, often recognized for their rock and funk leanings, as torchbearers for the raw power of Mississippi hill country blues, as exemplified by artists like R.L. Burnside and the late Junior Kimbrough.
A Revitalized Ensemble
With the addition of two dynamic young musicians, guitarist Mike Smith and drummer Shannon Boone, the revitalized Howling Diablos now present a formidable five-piece unit. Alongside veteran members Johnny Evans on harp and saxophone, Dr. Mo Hollis on electric bass, and the commanding presence of frontman Tino Gross, the band is poised for a major breakthrough fueled by this explosive new record.
Bridging Genres: Blues, Rock, and Beyond
'Car Wash' demonstrates the electrifying potential of blues-infused rock, offering a compelling experience for fans of both genres. The album's ability to transcend rigid genre boundaries is highlighted by comparisons to artists like Morphine and Iggy Pop, promising an adrenaline rush for listeners. Saxophonist Johnny Evans' playing often echoes the dark, blues-noir foundation of Morphine's sound. Tracks like "A Woman (Like Mine)" and the album closer "Elvis Lives" feature lyrical themes and vocal delivery reminiscent of The Stooges. Tino Gross noted the shared roots of Iggy Pop and himself in blues drumming, suggesting a fundamental connection between the spontaneous energy of The Stooges and the blues.
The Producer's Vision: Raw, Loud, and Live
The album's core strength lies in its songs and Tino Gross's production. He meticulously crafted 'Car Wash' as a sparse, lean, loud, and live recording, capturing a red-hot energy. This road-ready sound was evident at the band's well-attended CD release party at The Magic Bag in Ferndale, Michigan.
Lyrical Depth and Musical Innovation
Tino Gross contributed to or wrote nine of the album's ten tracks, with the sole cover being R.L. Burnside's "Gone So Long." Burnside's influence permeates the record, particularly in the title track's driving rhythm. The album features tight, rousing performances from all five members. "Broke Down" incorporates subtle spoken-word street rants by Gross, delivered in the style of a disoriented individual, enhancing the song's themes of desolation and deep blue lyrics. The blues murder ballad "Prison Train" stands out with its striking contrast between grim lyrics—"Well you know I shot my baby, shot her full of dope, early tomorrow morn I'll be swinging from a rope..."—and its cheerful, crisp guitar instrumentation, showcasing the power of artistic juxtaposition. Recorded with an antique microphone at Detroit's White Room studios, "Mean Little Town" delivers some of the most stark and austere vocals in blues history. This recording marks a significant new chapter for one of Detroit's esteemed bands, with extensive touring expected to support this no-nonsense scorcher.