Got to be honest about this from the outset, I was a touch dubious about the “millionaire rock star revisits the blues” angle. To any rock fan of a certain age, the name Vivian Campbell initially brings to mind the incredible work he first did with Ronnie James Dio on the much-revered “Holy Diver” opus back in the mists of time. Some coincidence then as Dio, the band, have chosen to revisit the entire album in their current live set, Mr Campbell has recorded this and it marks a departure from the fire-ridden riffing and lightning solo’s that started his quite illustrious career. I would assume that due to there not being a great deal of action in the Def Leppard “day job”, his position in the music industry has allowed him to indulge himself in an album of blues standards which feature his surprisingly respectful guitar talent and as an added bonus, introduce the man as a vocalist. No, scratch that, a singer of no little talent. 

A glance at his website, www.viviancampbell.com reveals a good insight into a man who obviously knows his blues and has an equal measure of respect and confidence to be able to muscle in on what is essentially, the purest form of music ever written.  The endless list of blues greats, from Muddy Waters to Eric Clapton and Robert Johnson to Billy Gibbons, can now feature the name, Vivian Campbell. Some time ago I reviewed a Soul SirkUs gig in Wolverhampton and was struck by the restraint that Neal Schon exercises whilst playing and it’s this element that VC has managed to capture. It’s not “Metal God” ripping into the blues, this is a genuine bluesman playing from the soul. 

VC has chosen well with the track list too, there’s an intelligent mixture of tempo, allowing him to present a couple of angles with his gritty yet quite soulful voice. Tunes like “Messin’ With The Kid” with it’s R&B shuffle (and that’s Rhythm and Blues, not the Usher/Timberlake bollocks) and “I’m Ready” sit well with the slow Delta blues of “Come On In My Kitchen”. I’d be curious to see how the blues purists take this album; I’m convinced that it is a very honest interpretation of some classic music. The album was recorded over a period of only three days and retains the live feel, with few if any overdubs. Featuring some talented musicians, Texas bluesman, Billy F Gibbons contributed the only new, and to be frank, the outstanding cut on the album. “Willin’ For Satisfaction” was recorded in a hurry and VC only found out he was to sing the track as the tape started to roll. The Reverend Gibbons still finishing the lyrics as the band prepared to record. 

Overall, a well thought out vocal debut featuring some tasty guitar playing, retaining respect for the history of the genre and yet injecting life into some music not heard often enough. If the mighty Leppard machine ever implodes, then the Blues will look after Mr Campbell’s pension. Top stuff.

Let us know your views on 'To Sides Of If'

Track List

Messin' With the Kid
I'm Ready
Calling Card
Come on in My Kitchen
Hunter
Like It This Way
I Ain't Superstitious
Spoonful
Reconsider Baby
Good or Bad Times
32/20 Blues
Willin' for Satisfaction