Fran Drew and the Lucky Strikes – '‘Trial by Fire’
The Connecticut Blues Society's
best self produced CD
for 2024
 

“This is one of the grooviest blues albums to come along in quite some time.…a bold and fearless rockin’ blues record that takes no prisoners”. 
John the Rock Doctor

"Trial by Fire  is “a party in a CD case” 
Eric Steiner
The Washington Blues Society 

Tight as a nut, The Lucky Strikes light a fire under ‘Chauffeur Blues’, ‘Rock Me Baby’, ‘Roll With Me Henry’ and ‘Breaking Up Somebody’s Home’. Sax Gordon’s break on ‘Neighbor, Neighbor’ is superb and Drew’s lead vocal on ‘Fujiyama Mama’ gives Wanda Jackson a run for her money, yelps an’ all. No tired tribute, this is expertly-performed and (most importantly) great fun.
Leon Blanc
Blues in Britain Magazine

“Fran Drew and the Lucky Strikes “weave a mix of rock, blues, and classic grooves”, putting together an explosive, dance-ready debut album, Trial by Fire (2024). The core band, featuring Gene Donaldson on guitar, Dennis Cotton on drums, and Max Samson on bass, craft a gritty, soulful, full-throated sound on the 12 track LP, fully composed of covers.”
“Flamin’ Maimie”, which possesses a rocking, syncopated rhythm backed by Cotton and Samson. “Drew’s voice carries a gravelly bravado that gives the track a seedy glory, Drew’s incredible swagger and dominant persona is undeniable; she projects herself as a woman who knows what she wants, and how to get it.”
Jack Austin
Blues Blast Magazine

'Trial By Fire' is an excellent debut album, which emphasizes the versatility and talent of Fran Drew and the Lucky Strikes. “The combination of powerful vocals, masterful instrumental playing and well-thought-out arrangements makes this album a must-have for lovers of rock, blues and funk. The recognition by the Connecticut Blues Society confirms the quality of this album.”
Walter Vanheuckelom
Concert Monkey

This is the first time hearing Fran Drew and the Lucky Strikes and I am very impressed. Fran is incredible and her backing band is so good. Band core is Gene Donaldson on Guitar, Max Samson on Bass and Dennis Cotton on Drums. This album also includes a lot of guest musicians including Rich Badowski on Harmonica, Sax Gordon and Matt Parker on Horns, Jeff Bousfield on Keys and Steve Isherwood, Brandt Taylor and Richiman on Guitar. This band has a kind of West Coast Blues Feel in their delivery of these 12 songs. Some that stood up well to me were “Neighbor Neighbor”, “Roll With Me Henry” and a great rendition of “The Hunter”. I think my favorite is Memphis Minnie’s “Chauffer Blues″, really great song that Drew sings very well. I will give this a 10 on Blues Content and a 10+ on Music Content.
Jack Roy
WTJU - New Blues Review 

The Lucky Strikes weave a mix of rock, blues, and classic grooves that’ll make you want to shimmy and shake whether you’re in a honky-tonk bar or cruising down a dusty highway. It's a blend of power, attitude, and musical mastery that’ll leave you with a permanent bounce in your step. 

For a Good Time Look No further than Fran Drew and the Lucky Strikes.