Canned Heat are back with their new album Finyl Vinyl, featuring the Dave Alvin original "Blind Owl," the band's tribute to co-founder Alan "Blind Owl" Wilson. Guests include Joe Bonamassa.
Legendary blues-rock outfit Canned Heat is gearing up for a monumental comeback with their highly anticipated new album, Finyl Vinyl, marking their first studio release in over 15 years. The album promises to reignite the band's flame and reintroduce their iconic sound to audiences old and new.
Among the standout tracks on the album is "Blind Owl," a heartfelt tribute penned by Dave Alvin. Originally intended as a collaborative effort, Alvin surprised the band by crafting a touching homage to Canned Heat co-founder Alan "Blind Owl" Wilson. Known for his environmental advocacy as much as his musical prowess, Wilson's legacy is celebrated in this soul-stirring track, reminding listeners of the band's enduring influence.
But the album isn't just a trip down memory lane; it's a testament to the band's continued relevance. Tracks like "So Sad (The World’s In A Tangle)" and "Hot Ole Time" tackle contemporary issues with the same fervor and passion that characterized the band's early work. With guest appearances from Joe Bonamassa and others, Finyl Vinyl promises to be a powerful statement from a band that refuses to be relegated to Dad Rock sections of record stores.
Reflecting on their storied career, drummer and band historian Adolfo “Fito” de la Parra remarks, "Canned Heat has always been about more than just music. We’ve been a voice for change, a beacon of hope in tumultuous times." Indeed, from their humble beginnings in 1960s Los Angeles to their legendary performance at Woodstock, Canned Heat has remained a cultural touchstone, influencing generations of musicians and fans alike.
As the band prepares to embark on a new chapter, there's a sense of both nostalgia and anticipation in the air. Finyl Vinyl may hint at closure with its title, but for Canned Heat, the journey is far from over. With tour dates already lined up for 2024, including stops in both the US and Europe, the band shows no signs of slowing down. As they set out to once again bring us "up the country," one thing is clear: Canned Heat's flame burns brighter than ever.