“VOODOO CHILE” By Ari Joshua

Some songs are so iconic that covering them feels like stepping into sacred territory. Jimi Hendrix’s “Voodoo Chile” is one of those tracks a swirling, electric storm of blues, rock, and raw emotion. Yet, when guitarist Ari Joshua, drummer Russ Lawton, and keyboardist Ray Paczkowski of the RAaR Trio take on this legendary piece, they don’t merely recreate it. They dive deep into its cosmic essence, summoning the spirit of Hendrix while weaving their own unique narrative. The result is a reimagined “Voodoo Chile” that feels both reverent and boldly original, capturing the improvisational energy that has become the trio’s signature.

From the very first notes, Joshua’s guitar channels the wild energy of the original while carving out new sonic pathways. His tone is rich and searing, each bend and wail dripping with emotion. Joshua doesn’t shy away from Hendrix’s fiery intensity instead, he embraces it, blending blues-infused licks with his own brand of fearless improvisation. His playing is both technical and deeply expressive, capturing the raw power of the original while pushing the boundaries into uncharted territory. His vocals, understated yet emotive, ride the waves of sound like a distant echo of Hendrix’s own voice.

Lawton and Paczkowski form a rhythm section that is as tight as it is adventurous. Lawton’s drumming is deep-pocketed and groove-driven, providing a solid foundation while exploring syncopated patterns that keep the track feeling fluid and alive. His rhythms are more than just a backbone they’re a pulse, propelling the song forward while leaving space for the improvisational interplay that makes this version so captivating. Paczkowski’s Hammond organ swirls through the mix like a sonic mist, adding layers of texture and warmth. His playing evokes the smoky atmosphere of a late night jam session, shifting between haunting chord voicings and blistering solos that dance with Joshua’s guitar lines.

What sets this rendition apart is the trio’s ability to tap into the raw, live-in-the-moment energy that made Hendrix’s original so electrifying. There’s a sense of danger in their playing willingness to take risks and let the music guide them, rather than sticking to a predetermined path. This improvisational spirit transforms the track into something fresh and unpredictable, each musician feeding off the other’s energy, building tension and release in a way that feels organic and exhilarating.

The production, handled by Ben Collette at Tank Recording, Jonathan Plum at London Bridge Studios, and Joe Lambert’s mastering, gives the track a warm, vintage feel while ensuring every note and nuance is crystal clear. The mix balances Joshua’s fiery guitar work with Paczkowski’s swirling organ and Lawton’s rock-solid grooves, creating a lush sonic landscape that pays homage to the psychedelic roots of the original. Burgandy Viscosi’s illustration and Monte Mitchel’s art layout further enhance the experience, capturing the trippy, otherworldly vibe that permeates the track. RAaR Trio’s “Voodoo Chile” is more than just a cover, it's a celebration of musical exploration and fearless creativity. Joshua, Lawton, and Paczkowski don’t just play the song, they inhabit it channeling its spirit while leaving their own indelible mark. Whether you’re a die-hard Hendrix fan or a lover of mind-expanding jams, this rendition is a journey worth taking a wild ride through the heart of psychedelia, blues, and rock, where past and present collide in a burst of electric energy.

A massive shout-out to the phenomenal team that helped bring this vision to life! Ari Joshua poured soul into every note on guitar and vocals, while Russ Lawton laid down irresistible grooves on drums and Ray Paczkowski painted sonic landscapes on keys. Huge gratitude to Ben Collette, who captured it all with precision as the tracking engineer at Tank Recording, and to Jonathan Plum, whose masterful touch at London Bridge Studios brought the mix to perfection. Joe Lambert took it across the finish line with his expert mastering, making every sound shine. The visual artistry is just as captivating, thanks to the brilliant Burgandy Viscosi for her stunning illustration and Monte Mitchel of Forest Shore Designs for weaving it all together with an impeccable art layout. This project is a true reflection of their passion, talent, and dedication I’m endlessly grateful for each and every one of you.