Cadillac Dave and his band The Chicago Redhots have released a debut
album containing 12 songs and was produced by David W.Englehardt &
Craig A. Williams.
Cadillac Dave has been playing the blues around Chicago for 10 years
whilst the Redhots have been around 8 years since their formation in 1993.
The band have an impressive CV having opened for the likes of Otis Rush,
Otis Clay, Koko Taylor and Roomful of Blues.
The album is mainly comprised of covers with one original song by Mike
Wheeler "Been So Lonely" which has a haunting feel to it. I particularly liked
this song as it is a long and drawn out heart felt performance by the band, with
some nice Hammond organ by Melvin Robinson and an outstanding guitar
solo from Mike Wheeler. "Checkin' On My Baby" is a happy go lucky number
from the boys, Cadillac Dave's vocal is first class, he also does some mighty fine
harp playing as well.
"Snatch It Back and Hold It" also has some good harp playing from Cadillac Dave,
the way they sing chorus on this song reminds me of Magic Slim & The Teardrops.
Jimmy Reed's "Ain't Got You" is time for bass player Rob LaDuke to shine
on the vocals, he also plays the drums whilst Cadillac Dave gives us
a fine harp solo on this likeable tune. "Call My Job" has some fine guitar
playing from Mike Wheeler on lead and Carlos Showers on Rhythm. The roles
are reversed on "Born Under A Bad Sign", Carlos plays lead and Mike plays
rhythm as they tackle William Bell's classic tale of struggle and bad luck, I must
mention Big Ray on Drums and vocals who is outstanding.
I think the one thing that comes across on this CD is that the band are enjoying
themselves and they all take turns at being in the spotlight. I for one will be looking
for their next album as they said it will be full of original songs, I think the band
have a lot of potential.
Check out the bands website: www.chicagoredhots.com
This review is copyright © 2001 by Dave Thomas, and Blues On Stage, all rights reserved. Copy, duplication or download prohibited without written permission. For permission to use this review please send an E-mail to Ray Stiles.