Music review: Randall Bramblett – ‘Juke Joint at the Edge of the World’

Besides having a great title, the latest album from Randall Bramblett is a gritty collection of road-weary tracks detailing spicy stories about life’s adventures experienced off the beaten path.
“Juke Joint at the Edge of the World” is a nod to the small clubs and honky-tonks nestled in forgotten places and the colorful people who spend their hard-earned paychecks to lose themselves in a little friendly conversation, a lot of adult beverages and plenty of spirited music that reaches down and touches the soul.
The Georgia native issued his first solo effort with 1975’s “That Other Mile” and has been racking up the musical miles as a solo act, session player and touring musician ever since.
An accomplished writer and multi-talented musician, Bramblett has worked alongside memorable artists such as Steve Winwood, Gregg Allman, Levon Helm, Robbie Robertson, Bonnie Raitt and Widespread Panic. He also played with Chuck Leavell in the jazz-rock fusion band Sea Level.
If you aren’t familiar with Sea Level, allow me to take a brief detour and suggest that you treat yourself to the band’s 1977 eponymous debt release featuring “Rain in Spain” and “Nothing Matters But the Fever.”
Bramblett’s 11th studio release shakes the rust off the fenders with opener “Plan B.” Bramblett’s seasoned vocals feel right at home delivering the rousing track about exploring life without an agenda and, of course, no backup plan for when things go sideways.
“Pot Hole on Main Street” speaks to dealing with the daily struggles of trying to make ends meet, while “Garbage Man” offers up a funky take on simply enjoying the position and placement that life has dealt you.
“Trippy Little Thing” sounds like psychedelic Eric Clapton with hints of vintage Cream, whereas “I Just Don’t Have the Time” serves as a smoldering blues number.
After over 40 years of performing, Bramblett pulls an unexpected surprise by recording his first cover track with a fine rendition of Beck’s “Devil’s Haircut.”
“Do You Want to Be Free” closes the set with a tender glimpse of hope and light surprisingly overtaking the dark gloom of the streets, proving that if you truly want to be free, don’t have a Plan B.
Clint Rhodes is the Herald-Standard music reviewer. He can be reached at clinton43@me.com.