Out of the Blue by
The windy plains of Texas is the home of Spot of Blue. The main songwriter for the band is Gary Hankins and his guitar play swaggers between blues rock, countrified rock-n-roll, and roots rock. His unconventional voice reminds one of a smart blend of Johnny Cash and Elvis Presley. Spot of Blue could easily rock a juke joint or any bar east and west of the Mississippi. Good tight songwriting with an emphasis on rockin’.
- J-Sin
EarCandy by
Scott PlattGary Hankins Spot of Blue,"Livin’ Life This Way" (Indie Release)
A great mix roadhouse country blues and ballads that don’t swing to the slick pop-trendy country that permeates most country radio airwaves today. There is a twist of rockabilly and Appalachian bluegrass to give this the album a unique sound. "Just a Cowboy" starts out like a country version of the Beatles "Blackbird" giving a very interesting song. At times Gary Hankins has an Elvis Presley voice, especially on the slower songs. A great alternative to today's average country and special kudos to the excellent guitar playing.
A Spot of Blue in a dark world by
There are some musicians who play really really well. Then, there are those musicians who play really really well and just know what to play! With Spot of Blue, you're almost guaranteed the latter! Beautiful... WOW!!! More great stuff from "Spot of Blue." This particular groove, 'Blame It On Me' is something of a departure from their earlier material on their first album, "Livin' Life This Way" but what a nice departure it is. Jazzy, sweet and with an airy Latin beat, it just flows nice and easy-like into the ears. In fact, they all do! With 5 new songs on NOISEHEAD, (all from their new album entitled "Country Has No Color") Spot of Blue enhances their reputation as well as their repertoire with some great new music; a terrific and diverse selection of tracks that come with superb musicianship, high quality arrangements and that 'just slightly' off color, off tune (but highly recognizable) voice of Gary Hankins that's so reminiscent of Tom Rush from the 1960's and 70's (who was known for his unique and subtley beautiful arrangements and Northern folksy, down to earth and civilized but countrified out-of-the-mainstream voice). What this all adds up to is some really phenomenal new songs to sink your ears into. The next one, 'On A Wire' is just another great Gary Hankins-sounding tune... pure and classic Contemporary Country Pop; while, 'War Is Hell' (one of my favorites) just drives you into a chasm with some awesome Devil-may-care fiddle and guitar. 'Blowin' and Goin', another really nice-soundin' tune, adds some of that traditional-sounding light country folk to the overall mix; while their last and latest song up to now 'Waiting'... is just classic Gary Hankins, a little bit of Country, a little bit of Folk, and a little bit of Pop, played and sung with subtlety and feeling. Hats off to Spot of Blue for their rich use of wonderfully written, arranged and played musical compositions that just make you want to listen and listen up for more. - Magic Potion
Spot of Blue Hits the spot! by
SPOT OF BLUE – LIVIN' LIFE THIS WAY: Spot of Blue is founder Gary Hankins and a band of diverse, talented players. Gary is a singer/songwriter and rhythm guitar player. Hankins grew up in a musical family and has lived and worked in various parts of the United States. Gary pens poetic, real songs about America, life and travel. His music has a down-home flavor that blends a country base with assorted genres. Livin' Life This Way is Spot of Blue's impressive debut release. It features eleven earthy yet well-arranged songs that are light yet layered and serious. The CD explores a range of moods and "Hankins' vocals can capture the weary cynicism of Johnny Cash or the soft optimism of Jim Croce." 'Acey Deucey' is the playful opening track with cutting guitar chords and breaks flowing over a snappy rhythm. Hankins' vocals on the first song flip from gruff to smooth. The title track has a slow almost jazzy feel as Gary softy sings about the state of people and the planet. A subtle violin and backing vocalists also adds to the rich, reflective nature of the song. 'Amber' is a colorful tune that explores a full spectrum in under four minutes. Gary Hankins is an imaginative artist and Spot of Blue hits the spot!
• Recommended Tracks: (1,6,7) [USA/TX 2005 - web] (2006 Review by Laura Turner Lynch for Kweevak.com
