While his first album as a front man, Heretic Blues, saw O'Donnell struggling for focus in his many influences, Control Freak sounds more relaxed and confident. Stretching out to include funky soul ("She Got the Apples") along with parlor swing and smoky blues ("Tight and Long"), O'Donnell and his crew are in fine form throughout. Particularly impressive is the development of his songwriting skills. ~ Tim Sheridan