The New York City metro area has some of the world's best pizza and many of its best rock 'n' roll bands. The Hammers have long been a New Jersey institution for anyone who likes their roots music good and greasy. The trio couldn't be tighter, and the guests they invite are pure old-school, right down to Charles "Honeyboy" Otis, who adds percussion and co-production to this perfect outing. Led by no-nonsense singer/guitarist and songwriter Ira Spinrad, The Hammers bulldoze through 12 tracks that take their cues from Excello and Chess blues records, the grittiest moments off Exile on Main St., the spirit of Sun Records in Memphis (Jerry Lee!), and hundreds of late nights locked in the pocket. Jim Beckerman guests as the Johnnie Johnson of the operation, providing juke-joint piano (and even a touch of Hammond B-3). A duo of saxophonists rips the joint for a few tracks. But the band's core—bassist Dominic Zarrillo, drummer Bob Masucci, and Spinrad (what guitar tones!)—give a lesson in blues, rockabilly, honky tonk, soul, and rock 'n' roll.