The Hits Keep Coming

The Hits Rick Estrin & the Nightcats refer to in the title of their sixth album arent hit singles -- theyre a blues band in the 2010s, hit singles arent coming their way -- but rather body blows; its a sign that the veteran band still packs a punch. Estrin & the Nightcats follow through on an album that is squarely in their comfort zone, playing blues thats rooted in tradition but not beholden to it. The quartet realizes the blues is at its best when its adaptable, so theyll balance a cover of the Muddy Waters chestnut "Diamonds at Your Feet" with an ingenious revision of Leonard Cohens "Everybody Knows," giving the brooding ballad a streetcorner swing. Dont be fooled by the Cohen cover, though. The Hits Keep Coming isnt some dark night of the soul, its a lively record with a strong sense of humor and a potent sense of swing, two characteristics that come to a head at the knowingly goofy closer "Whatever Happened to Dobie Strange," a monologue that swipes liberally from Bootsy Collins. Those good spirits and professional punch are enough to keep The Hits Keep Coming engaging and entertaining throughout its zippy running time. ~ Stephen Thomas Erlewine