Friday Blues Fix searing smoke alarm review “10,000 Feet Below”

“The fire is barely extinguished from musical force of nature Eliza Neal’s debut release, 2015’s Breaking and Entering, but the Detroit-based blues-rock vocalist has returned with her follow-up, 10,000 Feet Below (E-H Records, LLC), a pile-driving album that’s guaranteed to set off a few more smoke alarms if there’s any justice in the world. One of the most distinctive, and powerful, singers currently practicing in the blues-rock vein, Neals offers up ten pulse-pounding original tunes, plus one most surprising cover, supported by a fantastic set of musicians, including her musical partner, the legendary guitarist Howard Glazer.
Glazer and Neals collaborated on Neals’ previous release, so there’s obviously musical chemistry between them, with the pair co-writing four of the ten originals, including “Another Lifetime” a smoldering slow blues with a passionate vocal turn from Neals and an electrifying solo from Glazer, the searing rocker “Burn The Tent Down,” “Call Me Moonshine,” another slow burner with Glazer really taking the spotlight on guitar, and “Merle Dixon,” a soulful southern rocker with a country flair. 

Neals’ own compositions are as strong as her previous offerings. “Cleotus” is a chilling country blues with Glazer on Resonator, and the title track sizzles both musically and lyrically. “You Ain’t My Dog No More” is a fun Chicago blues romp, and the ballad “Cold Cold Night,” which teams Neals with guitarist Paul Nelson (Johnny Winter), is a nice change of pace midway through. The blues rocker “Down Hill On A Rocket” is a fine track that leans a bit toward pop, and the moody closer, “At The Crossroads,” features the legendary R&B guitarist (and former Hendrix mentor) Billy Davis.

The album’s lone cover is “Hard Killing Floor,” the Skip James classic. Neals’ version is stunning; a haunting, piano-driven reading that includes a guitar run from Glazer that will pierce your soul. 

A superb effort from Eliza Neals, 10,000 Feet Below is the real deal…..great songs and performances from a talented artist who’s got a bright musical future ahead of her. 

Graham Clarke @ Friday Blues Fix Blog”

SPECIAL REVIEW! From Graham as he’s been closed for a few months thanks Mr.Frank Roszak for getting my music in the Right Hands! ⭐️