Album Information Section
Album Title: The Devil to Pay
Artist: Kim Simmonds, Savoy Brown
Original Release Date: September 18, 2015
Label: Ruf
Genres: Blues Rock, Blues
Track Listing
- 1. Ain’t Got Nobody (5:26)
- 2. Bad Weather Brewing (4:29)
- 3. Grew Up in the Blues (4:05)
- 4. When Love Goes Wrong (4:02)
- 5. Oh Rosa (3:34)
- 6. The Devil to Pay (4:19)
- 7. Stop Throwing Your Love Around (4:15)
- 8. Snakin’ (3:55)
- 9. Got an Awful Feeling (5:57)
- 10. I’ve Been Drinking (3:47)
- 11. Watch My Woman (4:04)
- 12. Whiskey Headed Baby (4:29)
- 13. Evil Eye (5:11)
Recording Information
The album “The Devil to Pay” was recorded at 606 Studios, which is located in the United Kingdom. The recording sessions took place in 2015, coinciding with the album’s release. The production was helmed by Kim Simmonds himself, who is not only the band leader but also a seasoned musician with decades of experience. The engineering was managed by the talented Chris Kimsey, known for his work with various notable rock acts.
One of the notable recording techniques employed during the making of this album was the use of vintage microphones and analog equipment, which helped to capture the authentic sound of the blues genre that Savoy Brown is renowned for. Simmonds infused his guitar work with a blend of classic techniques and modern flair, creating a sound that resonates with both traditional blues fans and a newer audience.
Interestingly, during the recording process, Simmonds aimed to encapsulate the raw, live feel of Savoy Brown’s performances, employing minimal overdubbing and encouraging the musicians to play together in the studio as much as possible. This approach helped to preserve the energy and spontaneity that characterizes the band’s live shows.
Band Context
By 2015, Savoy Brown had been a significant player in the blues scene for over five decades, with Kim Simmonds at the forefront since its inception in 1965. The band had gone through several lineup changes over the years, but the core of Simmonds’ vision remained intact. At the time of recording “The Devil to Pay,” the band consisted of Kim Simmonds on guitar and vocals, Pat DeSalvo on bass, and Garnet Grimm on drums. This trio had a strong musical chemistry that was evident in the album’s cohesive sound.
Before the release of “The Devil to Pay,” Savoy Brown had been touring extensively and had released several albums that showcased their evolving style. The band was experiencing a resurgence of interest in their music, partly due to the thriving blues revival scene that was gaining momentum globally. This period marked a significant chapter for Simmonds and Savoy Brown as they sought to solidify their legacy while continuing to innovate within the blues genre.
Track Commentary
“The Devil to Pay” features a collection of thirteen tracks that explore themes of love, loss, and the trials of life, all wrapped in a bluesy sound that Savoy Brown is known for. The opening track, “Ain’t Got Nobody,” sets the tone with its catchy hook and soulful guitar riffs, establishing Simmonds as a master of blending melodic lines with expressive vocals. “Bad Weather Brewing” follows with a more somber tone, showcasing the band’s ability to convey emotional weight through their music.
Tracks like “Grew Up in the Blues” and “When Love Goes Wrong” highlight Simmonds’ lyrical prowess, as he reflects on personal experiences that resonate with many listeners. “The Devil to Pay,” the title track, stands out with its infectious groove and clever lyrics, becoming one of the album’s standout songs. Other notable tracks include “I’ve Been Drinking,” which captures the essence of classic blues storytelling, and “Evil Eye,” which closes the album with a powerful and haunting melody.
The album received positive reviews from critics, many of whom praised its authenticity and the skillful musicianship displayed throughout. “The Devil to Pay” not only reaffirmed Savoy Brown’s place in the blues pantheon but also introduced their sound to a new generation of fans, ensuring that Kim Simmonds’ legacy as a blues guitarist and songwriter continues to thrive.
