Jeff Scheetz

Item: Dig!
Author: Doug Van Pelt

Dig!

(1992)

Reviewed by Doug Van Pelt

Discogs Bandcamp

Label Pure Metal RecordsHeaven's Metal #34March 1992

blues rock funk rock hard rock heavy metal

Sounding fuller and thicker than last year's "Woodpecker Stomp," this album digs a deep groove beneath all the sizzling leads--making this album something to come back to again and again. I think Jeff's songwriting shows more thought and tighter arrangements. As in his debut effort, humor makes its way into every available space. "Skeeter Scat" starts off with a hilarious sample of a guy sittin' down with a cold one (is that a beer or a soda? Uh oh, could be trouble!!!) outside, when a mosquito tries to interrupt the solitude and peace. First, this guy tries to spray the bug to death, and then he mutters, "This'll fix ya," and pulls out a shotgun and blows it away. "Impact" is a really cool melodic tune that bleeds emotion. It's probably my favorite tune on the album for this reason. "King's Triumph", like its name implies, is a very triumphant processional piece that's capable of cheering up a gloomy person. "Autumn Air" has a contemplative feel to it that is very soothing, and it features some great guitar tones. This song is not alone in this quality though, the entire album has very good sonics. The title track is another standout cut, incorporating a funky feel in a nice groove. The last tune on the album is another chuckle-getter. It's called "Lime Green Leisure Suit Blues" and it starts off with a seedy entertainer at the "Just Strolled In" Lounge, who announces his next tune before Jeff and company rip into a loud and obnoxious metalized Blues riff. Song for song, this album has a little more staying power and cohesiveness as a whole than its predecessor. Another fine accomplishment from one of the top candidates to win next year's "Guitar Hero Award" in the '92 Reader's Poll (now that Rex Carroll is officially unqualified for the running for the next five years).