Rhythm Lords’ ‘Lone Wolf’ Stays Near Familiar Pack

** 1/2 RHYTHM LORDS

“Lone Wolf”

Rebecca Records

*

Sure, the Rhythm Lords have blazed down this path before. Lots of fiery, blues-based ensemble work driven by the recognizable guitar licks of Dale Peterson and the soulful harmonica wailing of Eric Von Herzen, dominates this well-traversed landscape. And there are just enough traces of boogie-woogie, rockabilly and rock ‘n’ roll in the mix to offend the purists out there.

No matter.

Despite mining familiar territory throughout its new release, “Lone Wolf,” the Long Beach quartet works hard, and convincingly, to hone what it does best.

Thematically, singer-songwriter-guitarist Dale Peterson focuses his attention on fast cars, tempting women and dusty desperadoes. But even sexually suggestive lyrics, as found in the sultry “Java Headed Woman,” are no match for the hard-charging musical kick that essentially carries “Lone Wolf.”

Words even prove unnecessary in “Scorpion” and “Fender Bender,” two blazing instrumentals spotlighting Peterson’s fluid guitar leads and Von Herzen’s explosive harmonica soloing.

The Rhythm Lords hit their stride with a marvelous version of Muddy Waters’ “Trouble No More.” Each essential ingredient comes together seamlessly in this smoking blues chestnut, from Peterson’s snarling vocal delivery and Von Herzen’s stinging harp work to the crisp, sturdy beat laid down by bassist Stephen Traino and drummer Kip Dabbs. Even buddy John “Juke” Logan joins in by adding some dazzling piano embellishments.

Except for the disc-ending “Fender Bender,” “Lone Wolf” unfortunately limps a bit down the homestretch. Why not eschew a pair of repetitious electric guitar and harmonica-based arrangements and try something like a Delta or modern acoustic blues, at least for a song or two?

Still, “Lone Wolf” dishes up enough blistering, blues-based rock to keep your head bobbing and feet shuffling. Turn up the speakers and enjoy the ride.

(Available from Rebecca Records, P.O. Box 3301, Long Beach, CA 90803. (310) 987-1050).

* The Rhythm Lords perform Dec. 21 and New Year’s Eve at Gringa’s Grill, 111 Palm St., Newport Beach. (714) 723-6144. In a benefit fund-raiser, the Rhythm Lords join Chris Gaffney, Joe Wood and other local acts Dec. 27 for an Acoustic Christmas Party at Linda’s Doll Hut in Anaheim. 9 p.m. $5 (714) 533-1286.

Albums are rated on a scale of * (poor) to **** (excellent), with *** denoting a solid recommendation.