Chris Finnen and Jay Hoad - Off The Cuff (2016)

Jay Hoad’s new album “Off The Cuff” was written and recorded with guitarist Chris Finnen, who in 2013 was elected into the Blues Hall of Fame alongside the likes of Eric Clapton and Buddy Guy. This insane combination of musical talent and mojo features more instruments, ideas, beautiful compositions and incredible guitar playing than you can poke a stick at.

"Off The Cuff" also features Shaun Doddy on drums and percussion, and US musician Jim Miller on trumpet and flugelhorn. Over four decades traveling as a troubadour journey man has seen Chris Finnen often referred to as the ‘guitarist's guitarist'. Chris brings a wry twist to his original blues song writing, adding sly humour to lyrics, focusing on the musing of everyday experiences, and embracing a strong sense of community. His restless musical curiosity has seen him embrace a tapestry of varied cultural influences, weaving the sounds of India, Celtic traditions, and African nation's into his music.

"Chris is one my best friends and it was an absolute honour and a pleasure to spend time in the studio creating and recording this album. Chris is a living legend in my mind, a virtuoso musician, a wise wizard on the art of life, as well as being a mentor to all young musicians, constantly sharing all he can to teach and inspire. We wanted to have a spontaneous and raw vibe to this album. We did not hear each others compositions until we met in the studio to start recording these tracks, so there was a large element of surprise with plenty of room for improvisation and creativity. This album gave us an opportunity to create songs and soundscapes that we wouldn't necessarily put on one of our own albums. They say it takes two to tango, and tango we did! Enjoy…"

TRACKLIST

01. Favorite Thing
02. Demons In Reserve
03. Dan Moi & Hubcap
04. Finke River
05. These Days
06. My Southern Town
07. Rainforest
08. Transition
09. Didge Of Origin
10. Feelings
11. Womad Shuffle
12. Gaol Song
13. Lonesome Road
14. Paperclip Madness