I Smell Smoke
Although he’ll never entirely break free from theAlbert Kingcomparisons (certainly as long as he brandishes that Flying V guitar), Michael Burks’ second Alligator album moves him closer to hotshot guitar slinger territory. His playing has attained an even more muscular, slightly psychedelic edge that ferociously jumps out of the mix. Almost as impressive is Burks’ sand and honey voice. LikeLatimore--whose "Let the Doorknob Hit You" he covers here--the Arkansas-raised guitarist is a commanding and gritty singer, naturally joining soul, R&B;, and blues. He’d make a convincing vocalist even if he never played another gripping lead. But it’s his fleet-fingered attack that commands the most attention, as he torches through blistering solos like on the closing "Snake Eggs"--a stripped down showcase for guitar andBilly Gibson’sLittle Walter-styled harmonica where Burks sounds menacing even without a band. The aching, slow burn gospel-laced "Lie to Me" also benefits from Burks’ stunning tone that prowls and growls like a caged tiger. The combination of his singing and six-stringing talents makes Michael Burks an incendiary force and lights the fire underI Smell Smoke.  --Hal Horowitz