But skin color and point of origin hardly matter, as Hazell sounds like a complete throwback to the recordings of the late '40s and early '50s. His rhythmic drive is superlative while his sound and style are highly reminiscent of Memphis one-man-band star Joe Hill Louis. His raspy harp and vocals (sung into the same distorted microphone he plays through) are fortified with strong material, an unrelenting beat, and sensational ambience, as he ekes out a piece of blues turf that hasn't been occupied in a very long time. In the current white-boy blues community -- where seemingly every street corner has five people on it with shades, pleated pants, and beat-up Stratocasters in hand -- Patrick Hazell stands out as something very unique and cool. ~ Cub Koda