The Dig 3 (from the album Damn the Rent

The Dig 3 (from the album Damn the Rent

The Dig 3 (from the album Damn the Rent, an independent release) (by Lee Zimmerman)
 
The Dig 3 procure their own take on the Blues, a somewhat irreverent approach that still manages to stay true to the original template without being stifled by absolute allegiance to the form or format. With their second album, Damn the Rent, the trio — specifically, Andrew Duncanson (vocals, guitar) , Ronnie Shellist (harp) and Gerry Hundt (practically everything else) — parlay their talents into a series of energized and expressive songs powered by both spunk and Funk.
 
That’s evident even at the outset, particularly in the strut and stride that drives “All the Love That I Got”, “Dip My Toe”, and “Big Water”, not to mention the steady Bo Diddley beat that powers the aptly-titled “Take A Ride”. The band share more than a hint of Funk and R&B, making for an ageless sound that finds a fit with a certain sound and style. They don’t necessarily attempt to expand any particular parameters, although they do interject the music with their own prowess and personality. Given the solid grooves, it certainly does suffice.
 
That said, it takes a certain amount of daring to attempt to make a mark in an already crowded arena shaped by decades of soul-stirring masters and mentors. So, credit each of these musicians with making a solid impression. Duncanson’s gruff vocals naturally dominate the proceedings, but Shellist gets his licks in as well, particularly on the album’s sole instrumental “Gold Tooth”.  Naturally, Hundt does the lion’s share as far as the delivery is concerned, being that he plays the bulk of the instrumentation throughout. Combined, they provide a fiery finesse that’s well reflected on the ZZ-Top like boogie of “Blanco Boogaloo” as well as a certain sass evidenced on the tentative closing track “Old Dog”. A pair of untitled bonus tracks keep the momentum moving.
 
Ultimately, it’s that combination of attitude and aptitude that gives The Dig 3 both relevance and irreverence. It’s enough to ensure that the trio easily set their own standard. Ultimately then, what’s not to dig? (by Lee Zimmerman)
 
Listen and buy the music of The Dig 3 from AMAZON
 
For more information, please visit The Dig 3 website