Porchlight
MIG
Snooty blues-rock? That’s what some might wonder upon discovering guitarist/singer/songwriter Sharpville is a titled member of one of the U.K.’s oldest aristocratic families, descending from royal lineage.
Legally, he’s known as the Hon. Roland Augusto Jestyn Estantislao Philipps, the second son of the late Colwyn Jestyn John Philipps, who was the 3rd Viscount St. Davids. He even declined an offer from the Conservative party to stand for election to Parliament.
But to peers and fans, he’s well-respected on the international blues scene. He started out jamming in Texas clubs and bars. In 1994, Blues in Britain magazine named his debut, “Touch of Your Love,” best album. In 1995 the magazine declared him best guitarist. He toured two or three years.
Then he took some time off. According to a cached version of his website from 2001:
“His disappearance was largely due to the fact that he had been dragged away to lend his distinctive style to various commercial projects (although he still found the time to lend his talents to five Dana Gillespie albums and Earl Green‘s debut offering). He ran into contractual difficulties and management problems. After a long legal battle with his old record label, he is now able to record under his own name, and is back to the blues for good.”
Next came his sophomore release, “The Meaning of Life,” featuring guests Mick Taylor, Snowy White, Leo Sayer and Eugene “Hideaway” Bridges. Some recording was done for a follow-up, the divorce-inspired “Diary of a Drowning Man,” but that album remains shelved.
“Porchlight,” Sharpville’s fourth album, was produced by Duke Robillard and features appearances by Robillard, Kim Wilson and mentor Joe Louis Walker. Although it follows on the heels of a mental breakdown, a lengthy visitation-rights battle and the death of his father, it undoubtedly is his shining moment.
Hot licks, heartfelt singing and exceptional songwriting — look out, North America!
Tracks
CD 1
1. If Love Is A Crime
2. Lousy Husband (But A Real Good Dad)
3. Used
4. Why Does It Rain?
5. Can’t Stand The Crook
6. Everything Will Be Alright
7. Old Feeling
CD 2
1. When The World’s Not Enough
2. When The Blues Come Calling
3. If That Ain’t Love What Is?
4. Legacy Of Greed
5. Whole Lotta Lady
6. Misery
7. Busted In Pieces
8. Porchlight
Total time: 1:23:14
External links
artist’s website
amazon.com
iTunes Store
