Everything about the new Ben Phelps Project’s album is big. From the scorching saxophone blasts, to the torrid bass, guitar and keyboard interplay to it’s fifteen tracks of rock jazz and soul fusion, “Wake Up the Guards” is a big step forward for this Hampton Roads band that has been around since 2007.

Interspersed with Ben Phelps’ original songs are some sophisticated instrumentals that accentuate the serious lyrics that sometimes focus on social and political themes.

The album is bookended by part one and part two of a powerful funk rock jam sets the bar for the rest of the songs.

As the title implies “Wake up the Guards” is a statement that The Ben Phelps Project is coming, blasting sax-fueled rockers the whole way.

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