This Native American Blues powerhouse, struck blues gold with 1998's independent release "Things We Do." and their new self titled release proves that there are some tried and true blues rock bands still lurking out there. Led by Mato Nanji, Indigenous (whom are all related members of the Souix tribe), set out to raise the bar on blues rock, originally set by one Stevie Ray Vaughan -- whom is an obvious influence -- to the staggering point where some non-blues fans who heard my copy of the CD, actually thought they were listening to an SRV CD. However, it must be stated that after one listen, you can safely put that thought behind you, because it's clear that Nanji voice incorporates a distinct gravel, enough to separate Indigenous from the other blues rock bands currently on the scene.

"Indigenous" opens with the hummable lick of their first single: "Cmon Suzie," A Hendrix/SRV-influenced classic rock-fest with all the guitar stylings which Nanji has perfected on earlier independent releases. Unfortunately, within the span of this song, you can't help but notice the CD's most notorious flaw: While their CDs "Things You Do," as well as the amazing "Live At The Pachyderm Studios" bring you right next to the band (a production quality that incorporated a crisp and perfected mix), "Indigenous" struggles, and almost sounds like a re-production of a great studio session. The sound quality is almost comparable to a lower quality MP3 -- which is sometimes distracting during the listen. This production flaw is most notable in "Suzie" (maybe the track was recorded somewhere other then the rest of the CD?) -- However, this is the only thing that seems to take away from this particular song, which is one of the better blues rock singles to come out in 2003.

Probably the most worthy note to continue with is that "Indigenous" is a CD that continues to get stronger as it unfolds, bringing to life to some classic rock-esque / blues anthems such as "You Turned My World Around," and "Want You To Stay." Most notable are the darker "Hold On" which slowly speeds up into an intense rocker, and "Im Still Here," where percussions shine through the breakdown to reiterate that Mato Nanji is certainly not the only talent looming in this band. "Indigenous" also incorporates one cover, Jimmy Reeds "Shame Shame Shame," and a closing untitled instrumental track (something which I personally feel helps round out ANY blues album.)

Overall, "Indigenous," even with it's minor setback of production quality, proves that there are some viable blues rocks bands out there that don't have to rely or focus on pop-fluff to bring their music to the masses. Instead the band continues to do what they do best...Rock.

-- Brian Cohen ("Are You Blues" Founder)

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