Malcolm Holcombe

03.03.2008 -- Review by: John Walker

Linking up with acclaimed producer Ray Kennedy, Holcombe certainly delivers with his new CD entitled Gamblin’ House. Holcombe actually wrote 18 songs for this CD before selecting the best 12 to include. His simple lyrics flow with each song, but it is the passion in which they are delivered that brings it home.

Holcombe’s guitar picking will remind many of Lightnin’ Hopkins, or the great Townes Van Zandt. He has the ability to squeeze those strings and make them sing. From the very beginning, with the first song titled “My Ol’ Radio,” Holcombe takes the listener on a memorable journey. He has his poignant moments, such as the moving song “Blue Flame” and “I’d Rather Have A Home,” and a touch of the blues with the grinding “Evelyn.”

It is the passion which flows from “Baby Likes A Love Song” and “You Don’t Come See Me Anymore” that allows Holcombe to shine at his best. Accompanied by his mesmerizing acoustic guitar, Holcombe can captivate you with his portrayal of loneliness, clearly painting a sad picture to share with the listener.

Gamblin’ House is a good CD for those that love the art of a guitar master. Holcombe does get great support from his band, which includes Kenny Malone on drums, Ed Snodderly on several string instruments, David Roe Rorick on base, Kirk “Jelly Roll” Johnson on harmonica, Chris Carmichael on ceilo and viola, and Siobhan Maher Kennedy providing background vocals.