Led by the guttural vocals and incisive harmonica of imposing frontman
John Popper
,
Save His Soul
is a savory package that dresses obvious influences in a fresh suit of clothes. While six and 12 strings rule, the true inspiration here is
Popper
's delivery on harmonica and other wind instruments, which spits in machine-gun-rapid fire or carries a piercing, emotive melody line with equal ease. Having restrained themselves for most of
Blues Traveler
close with the seven-minute opus
"Fledgling,"
flowing from epic, orchestral ballad mode to angst-ridden wall-of-noise. ~ Roch Parisien