Makin' Magic

While some blues-rock enthusiasts were a bit miffed that Pat Travers dialed down the rootsy tones in his 1977 sophomore solo album, fans of the man’s hard rock still consider it one of his best studio performances. Makin’ Magic opens as the title track bulges with robust riffs, backed by the dynamic rhythm section of drummer Nicko McBrain and bassist Peter “Mars” Cowling. Much like Robin Trower or Frank Marino & Mahogany Rush, Travers and company are totally unapologetic about their Jimi Hendrix worship. But it’s Travers’ rhythm section that more closely resembles The Experience’s Noel Redding and Mitch Mitchell in both playing style and musicianship. Check out the following “Rock 'N Roll Susie,” which plays with ZZ Top’s muscled attack, Thin Lizzy’s tightness, and The Jimi Hendrix Experience’s loose boogie. Although rumors buzzed that the power ballad “Stevie” was based on Stevie Nicks, it's actually about Travers’ younger brother Steven. Anyone craving Travers’ hard attack on the blues need look no further than his blistering rendition of Blind Willie McTell’s “Statesboro Blues.”