[Album Review] Rob Duskey and the Rounders' Blank Canvas to Man

Blank Canvas to Man is an exceptionally fitting title for Rob Duskey and the Rounders’ brand new album I was lucky enough to get a sneak peak of through Eric, John and mine’s interview with Rob on Monday September 12, 2011 in the WJCU studios. From start to finish, the album takes you on a refreshing journey through reality. Track 2, Meet Me in the Middle, sets the tone of the album with an upbeat story of compromise and a sense of grounding. Rob and the gang surprise us with track 4, Palo Alto, featuring John Popper with an insane harmonica solo about ¾ of the way through the song. I would have to say after listening to the album a couple of times over, Twenty Six, track 9, is probably my favorite (and I agree with Rob when he says he loves the acoustic “whoas” at the end). It brings out a lot of what Rob and the Rounders want to get across on this album and really showcases the passion that was put into making the man from the blank canvas. Rob and the Rounders don’t forget to sneak a couple slower songs in there with track 5, Sunshine, and track 8, Dance For Me.

When we asked Rob how he felt about the album overall, I think he says it best. “When you put your heart and soul into something and it turns out to be good, yeah, you can feel good about it.”

With its impressive blend of instruments in addition to the smooth vocals and lyrics (and of course that killer harmonica), Blank Canvas to Man really comes together to create a sound I haven’t heard many do well since the mid 90s. The more I listen, the more I love it.

Find out more about Rob Duskey and the Rounders at robduskey.com or check them out on Facebook. The album is set to release NATIONALLY February 14, 2012!

Listen to Rob's visit to the WJCU Studio's here: Rob Duskey's Visit to WJCU September 12, 2011