When I first heard The Ben Miller Band, I didn’t know exactly what to think. Then, after a couple of runs through their first CD, I knew I liked every nuance of the music.

Now, thanks to some friends of some friends, I get to review the newest CD recorded at Blue Cove Studio. It hasn’t been released officially, but I suppose a sneak into the sound can’t hurt.

The songs gather up steam for a quick, but relaxing trip through the old stylings of a mix of bluegrass, folk and blues. Within a few minutes, anyone listening to the album will wonder how the mix works, but it does. Ben Miller makes a good choice of allowing a good combination of fast-paced rhythm and acoustic riffs. The slide guitar chants back to the old-timey feel reminiscent of the 30s and 40s.

Without actually knowing the names of the songs on the CD, I can only say so much, but the lyrics make up for that lack of knowledge.

“Jelly, Jelly Jam was fine,” is a line, which, once heard, will never leave a person’s head. Sung in a traditional recall-blues manner with a bluegrass soul, it’s a heavy-hearted look at love and fun. “I’m going where the cold wind blows,” also rings a bell with that mix.

There’s definitely a reflection of the Georgia roots of the blender known as The Ben Miller Band.

Fans will definitely get what they are expecting out of the band, plus more.

There’s always more. Whether it’s washboard beats or harmonica solos, riffs, shots and swings, it’s all there at some time or another. I detected the hint of the washtub bass in several songs as well.

As I stated earlier, I don’t know the names of the songs. That’s an integral part of understanding the deeper meaning in every song. Yet, I find myself drawn in anyway through each and every ballad.

The members often credit a hip-hop feel to their live performances. Perhaps they can start labeling it to their CDs as well as the last few songs drop off in pace and the vocals pick up. You can almost hear them stretching their necks out to meet the mic.

Three distinct sections roll out in this new edition of the band’s public profile.

The first third is characterized by a soulful embrace of every genre influencing the group. It’s truly them.

The second third is characterized by a echoing of that influence and the final third shows off the band’s ability to change pace and still keep in touch with the audience.

Some might find it a bit distracting if they aren’t familiar with the style or the band, which is natural. It is complex and unique, but all Ben Miller.

There are no let-downs with this album and when it’s officially released, pay the dues and don’t go through a friend of a friend like I did. The band deserves it.

The CD will be released in around 3-4 weeks. There was no working title at the time of production and fans can pick it up at Sam Goody.