Blues in the Box: Rick Estrin and the Nightcats

Rick Estrin and his musically fearless Nightcats are modern blues at its most potent, with ten sparkling new originals on their latest album, The Hits Keep Coming, ranging from from crisp, hooky retro-rock to intense, noirish blues, along with sublime interpretations of Muddy Water’s “Diamonds At Your Feet” and Leonard Cohen’s “Everybody Knows.” The songwriting is quick-witted throughout, and the band’s ensemble playing is infectious and jaw-dropping.

“Estrin defines his own brand of hip.  Superb harmonica work [and] the current litter of ‘Cats, including guitarist Kid Andersen, reigns as the best band anywhere.” — Downbeat