(08) - Kenny Wayne Shepherd - The Place You're In (2004)

The Place You're In, Kenny Wayne Shepherd's long-awaited fourth album, marks a stunning stylistic shift for an artist who almost single-handedly introduced blues-rock to a new audience. One of the most acclaimed guitarists of his generation not only leans more heavily toward rock,but also releases his first album featuring his vocals. "We're all growing and changing....We might as well get behind it and enjoy the ride." And enjoy The Place You're In.
Kenny Wayne Shepherd went from the cute kid who could play blues guitar better than any old-time, juke joint veteran to a full-fledged young adult who can play AOR rock riffs as well as Joe Satriani or Steve Vai. The only difference between them is that Shepherd is now singing on his own albums, for the first time ever, and because of that he outdistances the two of them.
Kenny Wayne Shepherd rode in as a blues rocker who drew comparisons to Stevie Ray Vaughn. While critics dismissed the teen protégé as being all technique who lacked soul, he was an instant hit with blues and rock fans alike. Since his debut, Ledbetter Heights, Shepherd has been slowly straying further from the blues into classic album rock. Following a five year absence, he returns in full rock mode, which actually suits him better than the blues ever did.
Dressed in black leather with a gothic cross hanging from his neck on the cover sets the tone for what's inside. With hard driving rock and roll, heavy power chords, and sweltering solos, this record rivals any of the 1970 arena rockers on their best days. Long gone are the days of covering other people's material as Shepherd penned every track in partnership with multi-instrumentalist/ producer/ engineer Marti Frederiksen. While the disc reincarnates the screaming guitar pitches of such groups as Humble Pie, Grand Funk Railroad, and Foghat, Kenny & company update the sound with a Lenny Kravitz-like makeover. Adding a bit of raunchiness to the disc, Kid Rock lends his star power and his unmistakable voice on the rough and ready "Spank". Shepherd blends acoustic with electric on "Believe", giving the tune a 70's power ballad ambiance. Shepherd has not only grown as a guitarist but his vocals have matured as well. However, he still lays low on a couple of tracks. The aggressive "Believe" and heavy handed ballad "Burdens" feature Noah Hunt on lead vocals. With a nod to all the guitar heroes before him, the disc ends with a high volume instrumental - "A Little Bit More". Even though the revamped Kenny Wayne Shepherd will most likely lose his crossover appeal with blues fans, hardcore rock supporters will definitely revel in his new sound.

Tracklist:
01. "Alive" - 3:44
02. "Be Mine" - 4:09
03. "Spank" - 3:01
04. "Let Go" - 5:02
05. "Ain't Selling Out" - 3:15
06. "Believe" - 3:58
07. "The Place You're In" - 3:22
08. "Hey, What Do You Say" - 5:03
09. "Get It Together" - 3:48
10. "Burdens" - 3:39
11. "A Little Bit More" - 5:36

Label: Reprise Records
Genre: Blues / Pop
Producer: Marti Frederikson
Country: U.S.A.