Keys to the Kingdom

iTunes Review

Recorded at the Allstars’ Zebra Studios in the wake of Cody and Luther Dickinson’s father’s passing (musical and production legend Jim Dickinson), Keys to the Kingdom is literally dedicated to him and performed in the spirit of all great Southern rock. “This A’Way,” “Jumpercable Blues” and “This Meeting” slide towards a blues that can still express an inner joy even when it’s tired and fed up. “How I Wish My Train Would Come” turns towards country with a Stones-like slash of the guitars. “Hear the Hills” throws the harmonies into its roadside attractions. The cover of Bob Dylan’s “Stuck Inside of Mobile With the Memphis Blues Again” is a reworking that emphasizes a swamp-blues guitar that’s halfway to “Signed, Sealed, Delivered.” “Let It Roll” and “Ol’ Cannonball” capture the spirit of the Mississippi Delta blues. “Jellyrollin’ All Over Heaven” features Luther’s slide-guitar and Cody’s sturdy groove as they pay tribute to their dad. The Deluxe Edition includes three cuts from Cody and Luther, including the dark, down blues of “Done Laid Blame” and the quick and brutal “Ain’t Got No.”