They might as well have brought us back through a time machine, because iconic and classic rock, blues, jazz tunes are coursing through every track on this album. It’s amazing how “Alive & Kickin’” proves the genre to be a timeless kind of art, making songs in that category without any of them sounding much alike. Featuring collaborations with Ron Irving, Andy Rice, and Laura Buechler, the bLUES bUSTERS curated everything to be their best in this record.
Starting off with “Dream That Old Dream” with Ron Irving, it’s got strong vocals and a catchy chorus, narrating the passion and the moment of discovery, following the dream of creating music. It’s also about facing the reality of entering the scene, where not everything is smiles and success. This track shows off The Beatles’ influence by integrating songs such as “Now and Then”, “I Get Back”, and “Don’t Let Me Down” in the lyrics.
There’s something about “Rocky Mountain Blues” that hits close to home, to the old-fashioned time of the classics; vocals also give off Sinatra in this one. It’s the type of song that’s usually sung at a local pub, where the guitarist and pianist show off their improv solos. “A Fifth Of The Blues” features a snarky keyboard solo, and “Late Night News” starts off upbeat while speaking on finding sincerity through the fun times of life.
“Walking In St. John’s” is beautifully written, as it provides vivid imagery, like taking the listeners on a walk and tour, while reminiscing of good times: “sacred ground / gonna make you grin”. The song’s bridge features niche things and moments such as their Subway having lobster on the menu, adding depth and endearment even if it’s just through song.
The record also contains songs that backtrack to particular themes. “Double Dealing Dancer” has this mysteriously seductive aura that checks out with what it’s actually about. Later on, “Square One” with Andy Rice tackles a similar subject of trusting blindly and facing deception, only the mood comes out on top with the acceptance of going back to zero – or square one.
Likewise, “Count Me Out” talks about not giving in to the struggle, matched with the need and want to bounce back in life: “I been half spent, long gone, cut loose, but I’m holdin’ on”, whereas “Nothing To Prove” with Laura Buechler features fierce vocals and an even fiercer perspective in life. Empowerment, self-acceptance, and strength coursing through; it’s about being lowkey and simple, yet being content, compared to those living large but have nothing to prove.
Picture this: a bar with the spotlight on the singer, anyone’s free to slow dance. Maybe a school prom, or that one scene in a movie where the protagonist’s looking for someone to dance with. That’s exactly what “To Be Loved” sounds like. Slow, intimate, heart-capturing, and absolutely iconic. It’s got a free-solo improv moment and lyrics that rhyme immaculately. On the other hand, “Shining Star” is the type of song someone would name their daughter over. It’s a sweet one, all things considered; the qualities and traits are admirable, kindness truly shines through, and it says a lot when it’s dedicated to someone.
Wrapping up the album would be “R.I.P. Blues”, which acts like a tribute with its somber, acoustic sound. It’s beautifully vague so it could be interpreted in more ways than one. It could be about the ever-evolving music industry, with old-fashioned, classic rocks and blues slowly forgotten, and with it the passion. “The journey ain’t yet over, got to travel on, travel on” would have to mean artists like them have to keep the sound and legacy going, which is exactly what the bLUES bUSTERS has done with “Alive & Kickin’”.
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About the Author
Kate Clarice Lee is a psychology major in Ateneo de Naga University with a knack for music and writing. She takes interest in playing guitar, poetry, creative writing, and lyrics that—subjectively—hit close to home. Kate mostly enjoys indie, alternative, pop & punk rock music.
