No Cover has a reputation for releasing some of the best blues Detroit has to offer. Harmonica player Buck Steele and his band of Steve Szalay (bass guitar), Eric Shaver (guitar and vocals), and Bob Mrozowski (drums and percussion) are no exception to that history. Loaded with excellent playing and clever songwriting, “Dirty Word” is an impressive listen. “System Shuffle,” the jazzy opener, offers opportunity for the band members to strut their stuff. Buck blows inspired lines over pocket tight rhythm and slick guitar work. Serving as a superb calling card for the quartet, it has Detroit grit written all over it. The original material that makes up the bulk of the disc is well performed and covers a wide range of tempos, from the deep blues of “Blues Train” to the wonderful tribute to “Louis Collins” to the shuffle of the title tune. Shaver is the chief songwriter and vocalist and brings a solid sense of both to the project. His guitar work is equally impressive and that guitar and tight rhythm section lay a nice cushion for Buck Steele’s harp throughout the program. The covers of John Campbell’s “Couldn’t Do Nothin’” and “Devil in My Closet” are musically impressive and played with verve. Buck’s harp is especially exciting on the latter piece. The final pair of tunes on the 13-song program were recorded at the Red Doggie Saloon in June ’02. Arthur Crudup’s classic “Mean Old Frisco” is given a tight little train send up, with nice guitar and harmonica work. The closing reprise of “System Shuffle,” acting as a set closer and member intro piece, is well received by the audience on hand. The live tunes point to the energy of the band on stage, as well as enticement to get out there and see what that excitement is all about. In the meantime, “Dirty World” is a vital Detroit blues disc that your collection will thank you for adding.