The Randy Stephens Band - No Strings Attached (2013)

Stephens’ brand of blues incorporates other genres, but the emphasis this time around is more in the rock and pop vein. He’s established himself on his earlier albums as a first-rate songwriter and that continues with impressive tracks like the moody “Blu Moon,” the roadhouse rocker “Keep These Blues Alive,” the slow burner “Stay With Me,” and “Hair of a Dog.” He also shines on a few more pop and rock oriented originals, such as “”Leaving You,” the lighthearted “Escape,” and the ballad “Wait For Me.”
Stephens also includes a pair of unique cover tunes that you probably won’t find on many blues albums. First up is a blues/rock interpretation of the Morris Albert mid 70’s soft rock hit, which works surprisingly well thanks to a inspired vocal from Stephens. The other cover is a previously unreleased tune penned by Prince, “If I Had A Harem,” also well done.
Treat Me Like A Stranger is Randy Stephens’ strongest release yet, a strong set of original tunes and performances that focus on blues rock with pop overtones. This set should please any discriminating fan of blues rock.