AMG Review of North Avenue Wake Up Call

Tom Demalon
All Music Guide

With their third album on Capricorn Records, the Freddy Jones Band find more focus, and the result is impressive. North Avenue Wake Up Call still retains the group's roots rock attack but manages to pay more attention to songs and lyrics. "Waitress" kicks the album off with its lyrical plight of working folks, including the song's title protagonist, over some muscular, grinding guitars. All of the quintet's members contribute music and the lyrical chores are mainly split between Wayne Healy and Marty Lloyd. Healy contributes two of the best in the dreamy wistful "Ferris Wheel" and "Rain," with guest Howard Levy adding some nice harmonica work. The bluesy vibe of "Hold on to Midnight" and the lengthy jam "Alone" will also please longtime fans.