Rock Meets Soul: An Electrifying Collaboration of Legendary Talent
I’ve known Jimmy Kunes for many years, having met him through Joanne’s cousin, the late Tim Bogert, when they played together in the band Cactus. Jimmy is the consummate frontman and songwriter, having been the lead singer for many outstanding bands, most notably Savoy Brown and Humble Pie. Recently, he teamed up with Angus Clark of the Trans-Siberian Orchestra—formerly with Cher and Joe Lynn Turner—to produce this incredible release.
Joining them on the album are Winston Roye on bass, Van Romaine on drums, Rob Clores on Hammond organ (a familiar face from several JSJBF events with the Anthony Krizen band), and John Deley on piano.
Jimmy, who sings and plays percussion, and Angus, on guitar and Mellotron, have worked together on numerous projects over the past two decades. This band feels like a natural evolution of their musical partnership.
Track-by-Track Highlights
The eight original tracks kick off with two songs by the core band. The first is a straight-ahead rocker and the lead single, “Step Up Step Aside.” This track combines Jimmy’s time-tested vocals with Angus’s screaming guitar and the band’s high-energy rhythm section—a winning combination guaranteed to get you moving.
“For My Life” starts with an unforgettable lick from Angus and grows into an anthemic masterpiece, complete with a fiery mid-song solo leading into a chorus that sounds like the entire band is singing (although, sadly, no song credits are listed).
Rob’s Hammond organ sets the tone for “Cross To Bear,” an ode to a turbulent relationship where a wandering partner reaps what they sow. Angus’s acoustic guitar and Jimmy’s vivid storytelling make this track a dynamic contrast to the opening rockers.
“Release Yourself” opens with a solid bass line from Winston and Rob’s driving organ, paired with Jimmy’s lyrics that paint an evocative picture. Meanwhile, “Dead of Night” showcases another signature Angus riff and Jimmy’s impassioned vocals, underpinned by the muscular rhythm section.
The acoustic-driven “Let It Begin” builds into an energetic jam featuring John’s rollicking piano and Angus’s sweet soloing, with Jimmy delivering the song’s title as if he truly means it.
“Drift” layers Rob’s organ with Angus’s electric picking, with lyrics using a ship on the water as a metaphor for heartbreak. The track’s vocal harmonies amplify its emotional depth.
The album concludes with “Free and Homeward Bound,” a poignant ballad featuring Angus’s exquisite acoustic playing and Jimmy’s plaintive vocals. The reflective lyrics evoke a sense of someone looking back on a long life while still anticipating the future.
Final Thoughts
This is a standout album from a group of supremely talented musicians, blending their individual gifts into a compelling collection of songs.
Catch the Kunes Clark Band live on January 18, 2025, as they open for Foghat with Cactus at the Carteret Performing Arts Center. We’ve already got our tickets and hope to see you there!