Ty Curtis Dazzles with Hybrid of Blues and Rock on Ascendant Blues

Ty Curtis
“Ascendant Blues”
Deep Stone Records
2023

Ty Curtis is a master showman whose performances are filled with the passion of his vocals and electrifying guitar playing. As a child, he embraced the music he experienced through his father playing guitar and singing the blues, along with his parents' diverse CD collection. As a young man, he quickly learned to play guitar, sing, and write songs. After graduating from high school in 2006, he released his first album, “Stubborn Mind.”

Curtis is clearly focused on connecting with his audience as he grows, pushes his boundaries, and explores new, deeper levels of emotion through his songwriting, guitar, and vocals. Few things are as satisfying as a musician committed to their craft like this artist. While the influence of Stevie Ray Vaughan and Chris Cain is evident, Curtis is never imitative; he creates a unique sound that’s entirely his own. His energetic blend of blues and rock is joyfully performed and well-received by his enthusiastic audience.

Over the past two decades, he has opened for legends such as Robert Cray, Robin Trower, George Thorogood, and the Doobie Brothers. He has become a favorite at festivals like the Waterfront Blues Festival in Portland, Oregon, and has consistently ranked highly on the best blues/rock albums chart on the Blues Rock Review website in both 2014 and 2016.

In 2023, he released his eighth album, “Ascendant Blues.” The set opens with “Hey Now,” a hard-driving romp reminiscent of Led Zeppelin that will have concert-goers up on their feet. On “What’s the Use” and “Back to You,” Curtis is joined by guest guitarist Lloyd Jones for a rhythmic tag team on these soulful blues ballads, with the former featuring Steve Kerin on keys and guest Steve McCoy on the Hammond B3.

Curtis's emotion-laden vocals, reminiscent of Burton Cummings, enhance his emotive lyrics. His voice harmonizes powerfully with his guitar skills. “Moving Forward,” “Treat Someone,” and “So Far Gone” feature Curtis on lead guitar and vocals, Dave Kahl on bass, Jerry Jacques on percussion, Richard Lawrence on drums, and Steve Kerin on keys. Guest harmonica player Hank Shreve adds the perfect blues flavor on “Hey Now,” “Back to You,” “Cut and Run,” “What’s the Use,” and “Big Deal.”

“Wish You Well” is a powerful keyboard-driven lover’s farewell declaration, followed by the album concluding with extended versions of “Back to You” and “Hey Now,” which provide the perfect ending to this rocking blues collection. From classic rock to blues and powerhouse ballads, there’s something here for every music lover.

If you ever get the opportunity to see Ty Curtis perform live, don't miss it! His recordings are exceptional, but there's something unique about experiencing his music in person that can't be replicated. Curtis is an incredibly talented musician who brings genuine warmth and energy to every performance.