Michael Pickett
Conversation With The Blues
(Wooden Teeth Records © 2000 WTCD002)
by Tim Holek
Singer/songwriter/harpist Michael Pickett has been a major force on the Canadian blues scene for thirty years. He is far more challenged by performing original material. Thus, its not surprising that this 2nd solo effort includes 10 Pickett-written originals from its 60 minute, 12 song set.
The CD begins the way Michael hits a stage and that's smoking! Throughout Michael is dynamite on harp as expected. However, he pleasantly surprises by turning in a sharp performance on resophonic guitar. The title track has a jazz feel to it and spotlights Pickett's strong and clear voice. This is not your stereotypical Canadian jump blues band but rather one capable of delivering a diverse collection of top-notch, original roots music. Pickett's innovative melodies result in assorted styles of modern blues. You won't hear the extended, virtuoso harp solos that we have come to expect at his live shows but this CD isn't about one particular instrument, its all about the music. You would never know this is an independent release based on the highly professional packaging and production work. Even big name labels struggle to achieve such standards.
For CDs and information contact: Wooden Teeth Records, PO Box 501, 3364 Keele Street, Toronto, ON Canada M3J 3L0 Tel (416) 631-8393 Fax (416) 633-3254 Website: www.michaelpickett.com
Carson Downey Band
All The Way
(Loggerhead Records © 2000 76974 2194-2)
by Tim Holek
Just before the summer of 2000, The Carson Downey Band burst upon an unsuspecting blues world with a phenomenal debut CD full of boundless energy. Ever since, the band has been receiving rave reviews. Upon experiencing the exciting 55 minute, all original, 12 track, hard-core blues disc, I now realize why. Hailing from a small town outside Halifax, Nova Scotia, the 3 member band includes Carson Downey on lead vocals and guitar.
The thundering trio delivers plenty of muscle while Downey's guitar performs acrobatics as it weeps, screams, whispers, and roars. The band's music contains traces of pop, funk, R&B, soul, blues and rock. They combine elements of each genre to create a savage assault of in-your-face, knock you on your ass music. Their heavy roots music will appeal to blues fans and rockers who enjoy turbocharged guitar. This band, fires on all cylinders like a precision-tuned engine running at full speed. Don't be surprised if you find yourself rushing out to check the listings to see if they are performing at a club nearby. Today's contemporary blues scene is no longer isolated to the likes of the Kinsey Report, Carl Weathersby, Michael Hill and Ronnie Baker Brooks. Move over boys, the Carson Downey Band is about to become the reigning champions of the new bluesbloods.
For CDs, booking and information, contact: Loggerhead Records, 532 Annette St, Toronto, ON Canada M6S 2C2 (416) 604-3104 E-mail: kristy@loggerheadrecords.com
Website: www.loggerheadrecords.com
Little Mack Simmons
The Best of Little Mack Simmons The Electro-Fi Years
(Electro-Fi Records © 2001 3368)
by Tim Holek
On his fourth Electro-Fi release, Little Mack Simmons posthumously has a CD that depicts his musical legacy. The songs included on the 60 minute, 15 track disc were considered by Mack to be his best work. Certainly his 6 originals are nothing less than stellar. Electro-Fi Records president and founder, Andrew Galloway, witnessed a Little Mack show a few years back and knew he had to record him. This best of disc contains selected cuts from his 3 Electro-Fi releases from the late 90s plus two previously unreleased bonus tracks. Mack's musical style incorporated gospel, country, funk, soul and rock into the blues.
Forget the frantic blowing that is commonplace today. Here lies the genius of an experienced harmonica ace. If you ever wondered what this man was all about, just listen to the lyrics on "You're So Special". Here he sings what every loved woman needs to hear and what every loved man wishes he could express. No, it isn't a Chicago Blues All-Star band performing behind Mack. However, they could easily be the best blues musicians outside Chicago.
For CDs, and information, write to: Electro-Fi Records, PO Box 191, LaSalle Station, Niagara Falls, NY 14304 Tel: (416) 251-3036 E-mail: electrofi@hotmail.com Website: www.electrofi.com
Luther "Guitar Junior" Johnson
Talkin' About Soul
(Telarc Records © 2001 CD-83476)
by Tim Holek
Thanks to his third Telarc release, a Luther "Guitar Junior" Johnson CD finally exists that accurately depicts the man and his music. On this disc, Johnson emerges as the bona fide leader of the Chicago West Side sound. He handles all guitar and vocals on the 52 minute, 13 track CD with its 6 originals. In an era when anyone who plays 12 bars or has been in 12 bars gets classified as blues, its refreshing and encouraging to encounter the real deal.
Less than 30 seconds into the first cut, the title track, you will be up and shaking. Paul Kahn accurately sums things up in his excellent liner notes: 'On "Talkin' About Soul", Luther not only pays homage to these musical heroes, he joins their ranks.' On each track, Johnson leaves his signature by creating a feeling from a musical groove. The new CD carries all the emotion and soul of the blues bug that first bit me many years ago. Its easily the year's best release. Don't know what the blues is all about? Try "Talkin' About Soul" with Luther "Guitar Junior" Johnson.
For CDs, booking and information, contact: Tel (216) 464-2313 x221. E-mail: kathydejohn@telarc.com Website: www.telarc.com
Holmes Brothers
Speaking In Tongues
(Stony Plain Records © 2001 SPCD 1272)
by Tim Holek
The music on this 55 minute disc will touch your soul and the lyrics will challenge you spiritually. Sherman Holmes, Wendell Holmes and Willie "Popsy" Dixon have been more commonly known as the Holmes Brothers since 1980. They smoothly combine soul, blues, gospel and R&B to create some of the most funked-up music available today. All 3 tackle lead vocals throughout the 13 tracks which includes 4 originals and 3 Ben Harper songs.
It's hard to believe the astounding disc was produced by pop superstar Joan Osborne. Her heart-felt revelation liner notes testify to her commitment and conviction to the band as both fan and friend. She joins forces with Catherine Russell and Maydie Miles to become The Precious Three. They are a pure delight as gospel choir-like backing vocalists on all tracks. This is contemporary roots music to rejoice to. It is not laced with heavy guitar solos or wailing harp solos. Its resonating 3-part vocal harmonies and rhythms will have you shouting from the mountain-tops. Comes with expectations for winning plenty of awards.
For CDs and information, contact: Tel (780) 468-6423. E-mail: sprecord@telusplanet.net Website: www.stonyplainrecords.com
Michael Burks
Make It Rain
(Alligator Records © 2001 ALCD 4878)
by Tim Holek
As mentioned in Cary Wolfson's impressive and accurate liner notes, here is a new artist who is capable of feeling and expressing the blues like its masters. This is an uncommon trait for most of today's new bluesbloods. Burks' second release lasts for 56 minutes and contains 12 tunes of boundless energy that leaves you breathless and exhausted. Burks handles lead guitar and vocals and contributes 3 original tunes. He is such a strong songwriter, it would have been nice to include more originals. The good news is that the songs that he choose to cover are not blues standards or classics and therefore will be fresh to most listeners.
Michael Burks is one of those rare artists who has mastered contemporary blues by combining it with soul, funk and a tad of rock. He doesn't combine these genres as a means of getting airplay but rather to torrentially express what's locked up inside of him. Could this be the new artist of the year? If so, nothing will make it rain on his parade.
For CDs and information, visit Alligator on the web at www.alligator.com. Michael Burks: www.michaelburks.com
Big James
If It Wasn't 4 Da' Blues
(Jamot Music © 2001 JM 1001-2)
by Tim Holek
Chicago-based singer/songwriter/producer/horn player, Big James Montgomery, is a former member of the Little Milton and Albert King bands but it was the late Johnny Christian who had the biggest influence on him. In 1998, Big James released a superb debut CD that received great reviews in numerous publications. Now he has done it again with his second release on his own independent label. The current members of the band have been playing together since 1998 and pour their hearts, sweat and power into 11 tracks including 6 originals. Within hearing the first few seconds of the title track, you know this is an experienced band rich in the rough, funky, soul/blues sound of Chicago's non-tourist blues clubs. It may be James' disc but you get far more than the trombone master's solos. Throughout the 60 minute disc, he gives the Playboys ample opportunity to deliver their goods. These guys have the freshest sound in the blues today. In his liner notes, Michael Wojcik states, 'they are so tight that even dynamite couldn't blow their groove apart'. This one is simply funkin' excellent.
For CDs and information, visit www.bigjames.com or contact Jamot Music, PO Box 375, Island Lake, IL 60042-0375 USA (815) 344-5855 jamotmusicmail@aol.com
Chris Beard
Born To Play The Blues
(JSP Records © 2000 JSPCD2148)
by Tim Holek
Rochester, NY's Chris Beard is a relative newcomer as far as CD releases go. However for 47 magnificent minutes you will journey through 10 tracks including 8 Beard originals. The impressive singer/songwriter/guitarist gets credit for producing what is surely JSP's finest release of the new millennium. Throughout his second disc for the British label, Chris plays with so much soul and passion you'll be thinking he is a reincarnated blues master. He has a unique, raw sound of Son Seals (circa Midnight Son) although the influences of BB King and Buddy Guy are visible.
Beard is backed by his large band whose names are so numerous they barely fit on the credit page. The disc will appeal to those who enjoy funky, horn-drenched guitar blues played as in the type of clubs you were warned to stay away from. It comes highly recommended from Tommy Castro, Duke Robillard and Bob Margolin while Art Tipaldi does a fantastic job with the liner notes. On thing is for sure and that's Beard was born to play the blues.
For CDs and information, contact: JSP Records, PO Box 1584, London N3 3NW, England, United Kingdom e-mail: john@jsprecords.com
Powder Blues
Swingin' The Blues
(Peerless Music © 2001 PRLSCD 52001)
by Tim Holek
Since the late 70s, Canada's Powder Blues Band has been vibrantly incorporating swing, blues, rock, and R&B into a sound they proudly call their own. Unlike their past 10 releases that featured a variety of rhythms, the new CD is composed entirely of big band style tunes. Three originals are included amongst the 11 hoppin' and a boppin' and swangin' tracks.
For over 35 years, leader Tom Lavin has been singing and playing guitar as a living. He along with members on bass, drums and keys make up the core band. However, no less than 7 brass blasting musicians are featured on sax, trumpet and trombone. These joyous horns are hopping throughout and are sure to convert those who feel the blues can only be played on guitar. The result is a disc that richly delivers happy music to celebrate life. This is a lock-tight band with excellent members who anticipate each others moves. The only downfall is at 37 minutes, the disc is far too short in length. If you are looking for a party with the absence of any troubles, you have found it!
For CDs, booking and information, contact: Tom Lavin, Blue Wave Productions Ltd.: (604)873-3388 E-mail: tlavin@powderblues.net Website: www.powderblues.net
Rita Chiarelli
Breakfast At Midnight'
(NorthernBlues Music © 2001 NBM0003)
by Tim Holek
Chiarelli's first CD in 3 years oozes with as much passion and emotion as the pictures of her included on the cover and liner notes. Originally hailing from Hamilton, Ontario, a blue collar toughness and grittiness can be heard in her three-octave voice. The 50 minute all original new disc features 11 heart-warming, bayou-inspired songs about desire, romantic obsession and love lost. Rita tackles all the vocals and contributes occasional acoustic guitar.
The songs bare the soul of Rita Chiarelli and invite the listener to feel their places, characters and emotions. The tunes prove that she is a powerful singer and an adapt songwriter. Many musical styles are represented giving the disc a tremendous crossover appeal which allows the listener to warm to it instantly. Canadian music legend Ronnie Hawkins says, 'once in a lifetime you hear a voice so blue that it makes the angels cry. Rita Chiarelli is that voice.'
For CDs, booking and information, contact: NorthernBlues Music, 67 Mowat Ave., Suite 233, Toronto, ON Canada M6K 3E3 Tel (416) 536-4892 or (866) 540-0003 E-mail: info@northernblues.com Website: www.northernblues.com
Artist website: www.ritachiarelli.com
Lurrie Bell
Cuttin' Heads
(Vypyr Records © 2000 VP-1001)
by Tim Holek
Lurrie Bell is immersed in the blues. As the son of bluesman Carey Bell, Lurrie became one of the original members of the Sons of Blues and remains fiercely devoted to the blues. On Cuttin' Heads, Bell's astounding guitaring and singing proves he isn't just one of the new bluesbloods, he is THE one! You will be gasping for air after the first track and the hyperventilating will continue through the length of the CD. It's loaded with 10 cuts and 7 of them are originals.
He strains his voice to reach some notes but everything played on his guitar is done precisely with impeccable timing. How many times have you heard a great set at a club or festival then purchased the artist's CD only to be extremely disappointed? Lurrie ensures that won't happen here. This guitarist's guitarist has released a live-off-the-floor disc that blues fans dream about. You will drool over this one. Look for Bell's name on next year's Handy Ballot.
For CDs and information, contact: Vypyr Records Ltd., PO Box 6062, Broadview, IL 60153 E-mail: bluenote@litgel.com vampinstein@yahoo.com
Shawn Kellerman
Take Note
(Kel-Tar Records © 2001 KT 001)
by Tim Holek
Shawn Kellerman hails from Kitchener, Ontario, Canada and is a self-taught blues guitar wizard. He has joined the select circle of musicians who define modern blues and are insistent to carry the genre to new heights. His style reinterprets the traditional forms and ignites them into the present with a ferocious authenticity seldom achieved by other guitarists. Playing an average of 200 nights a year, the not quite 30 year old has played internationally with some of the best.
Shawn's debut solo CD spins for 50 minutes and features 10 tracks including one original tune. 7 of the cuts were recorded live in front of a hometown crowd. At times, there is a rock edge present in his raw guitar playing but Kellerman is successful at keeping his music out of the blues-rock genre. He prefers blues which are upbeat and funky and has chosen such tunes from his regular live repertoire. His playing style is contemporary but it is still nuthin' but the blues. With one spin of this disc, record labels, DJs, promoters, club owners and magazines will all be taking note of Shawn Kellerman.
For CDs, booking and information, contact: Kel-Tar Records, 208 Stanley Drive, Waterloo, ON N2L 1H4 Canada Artist website: www.shawnkellerman.com
Artist e-mail: shawnkellerman@sympatico.ca
Various Artists
Stony Plain Records 25 Years
(Stony Plain Records © 2001 SPCD 1274)
by Tim Holek
Collection discs abound on the market ranging from samplers to tributes to anniversaries. Most are released for the sole purpose to hook you into buying more of the label's product. Rarely do you encounter a treasure like the 25 year anniversary collection from Stony Plain. It is truly a celebration of Canada's roots rock, folk, country and blues label. Its survival and relative prosperity as an independent record company is certainly remarkable. The double CD features almost 2 and a half hours of music pulled from over 270 albums. Too many artists to mention (more than 40) appear including previously unreleased material. The recordings age from 1972 to 2000 with the vast majority from the most recent decade. Many musical styles are represented here including bluegrass, country and anything imaginable that can be played by a fiddle and accordion. In addition, virtually every possible style of blues can be found.
None of the label's success would have been possible without its founder Holger Petersen. He is well respected in the industry as evidenced when the Holmes Brothers insisted his label distributed their new disc even though another label has the worldwide rights. Richard Flohil's extensive and well researched liner notes provide a rich history of the label and its founder. Legendary producer Jerry Wexler adds his own notes: "Holger Petersen has cultivated a stony plain and brought forth wondrous fruit." Petersen doesn't just have dreams, he lives them and they can be fully experienced on Stony Plain Records.
For CDs, booking and information, contact: Stony Plain Records, PO Box 861, Edmonton, AB Canada T5J 2L8 website: www.stonyplainrecords.com e-mail: info@stonyplainrecords.com
Big Time Sarah
A Million Of You
(Delmark Records © 2001 DE-750)
by Tim Holek
For more than 25 years, Big Time Sarah has been a Chicago blues woman of power. With forward looking, yet electric-blues conscious music, she sets sail in a new direction on her new disc. This disc was recorded over 2 days in the Windy City, it heavily features her stormy and hefty vocals amongst some killer guitar and piano work. When you have a voice as strong as Sarah's, it demands a supporting band as strong. Thus, she has put together a powerhouse ensemble which at times is more brawny than her chops. The 13 song, 65 minute disc features five new songs Sarah collaborated on with songwriter William Bolden and guitarist Rico McFarland. Bob Koester keeps with the times by producing an excellent roots-based contemporary disc.
"Blue Guitar" is an instrumental used to showcase her stellar band. Here, Rico confirms he is the new giant of the blues world. You might even go looking for his solo CD after hearing him wail here. His musical arrangements on 4 tracks result in the strongest and most memorable cuts. The disc is full of the passion and emotion that enthralled me into the blues many years ago. It will do the same to you. David Whiteis' liner notes indicates that Sarah wants to do a nationwide tour. After listening to this disc, people are sure to flock to the tour.
For CDs, booking and information, contact: Delmark Records, 4121 N. Rockwell, Chicago, IL 60618 USA Website: www.delmark.com
Walter Trout and the Radicals
Go The Distance
(Ruf Records © 2001 1067)
by Tim Holek
Walter Trout’s ability to play frenetic guitar breaks made him a sought after sideman for John Lee Hooker, Big Mama Thornton, John Mayall and Canned Heat. This resulted in a mass European following. Now, the Southern California resident is finally starting to get recognition in his native country. Lets get one thing straight - Trout is a high-energy, electrifying, blues-rocker who is very light on the blues. If you are still reading this then you must have learned to appreciate diversity from the twelve bar university.
His ‘hoarse throat’ vocals are gritty and scratchy and at times are as cutting as his plentiful, patented, scorching guitar solos. What separates this 63 minute, all-original CD from his previous ones is the inclusion of several non-blues-rock numbers which reveal a side of his personality that we have not seen. This is a disc that speaks volumes to the Trout faithful and skeptical. For years, he has been shunned by the blues crowd because he plays too much rock. Similarly, he has been bypassed by the rock crowd because he plays too much blues. Trout himself proclaims, "I don’t think you’ll see a more harder rocking band than my band live." Jim Gaines has produced a raw, thumping sound. If you enjoy heavy music delivered with kicking guitar and organ, this one is for you.
For CDs contact: Ruf America, Kenilworth, NJ, Ira Leslie (908) 653-9700 intumg@aol.com; for publicity contact Brian Yaeger (323) 852-9444 brian@hooplapr.com Label website: www.rufrecords.de Band website: www.waltertroutband.com
Jay Stulo
Damn Good Reason To Play The Blues
(Proud Cow Records © 2000)
by Tim Holek
If you enjoy blues-based roots rock that is driving and kicking then race out to pick up this 50 minute disc by Wisconsin’s own Jay Stulo. Born in Milwaukee into a musical family, Jay was encouraged to play at an early age. After moving to Eau Claire, Jay met James Solberg and began playing guitar with many regional and national blues acts. In particular, Luther Allison became impressed with Jay and it wasn’t long before Jay hit the road as Luther's guitar tech and apprentice. Eventually, in 1995, Luther encouraged the budding musician to start his own group.
Jay’s contributions to this disc are elaborate. He wrote 11 of the 12 tracks, produced all but 3 songs, plays some bass and handles all the guitars/vocals. In a world overrun with guitar slingers its a thrill to find the genuine deal. This multi-talented artist isn’t out to impress by being brazen or supersonic with his 6 string. It’s not what typically comes to mind when you hear the word blues but it is damn good and it will appeal to many listeners. Here is a true cross over artist with a ton of potential. A rare disc that captivates you from the initial note. Expect to love this CD from the first time that you give it a spin.
For CDs, booking and information, contact: Proud Cow Records, 306 W 17th Ave., Oshkosh, WI 54902 (920) 231-8674 e-mail: proudcow@tooslow.freeservers.com Artist website: www.jaystulo.com
Dr. Hector and The Groove Injectors
Vital Signs
(NSP Records © 2000)
by Tim Holek
Dru Lombar rose to fame as singer/songwriter/guitarist and leader of the 1970s Southern rock group Grinderswitch. Now he fronts Dr. Hector & the Groove Injectors. They are a powerhouse rock and blues quartet with a colossal sound. After 5 critically acclaimed studio CDs, the band has just released the first live recording of their 14 year career. The new disc was recorded in late December, 2000 at their regular stomping grounds in Florida. The Groove Injectors machine gun their way through 10 tracks in total including 9 originals. Throughout the CD, the boys stay true to their southern heritage by feverishly jamming for longer than 10 minutes on 4 of the tunes.
The cover art might deceive you that this is a low budget production. However what is contained inside is guaranteed to make your heart, head and feet skip to the beat. The band plays tight and the members know each others moves well especially on the steamy guitar and organ jams. Per Tom Ray’s liner notes: ‘if your appetite leans towards music that’s based in the blues, but knows every other move worthy of the roadhouse, then come fill your plates!’
For CDs, and information, write to: New South Productions, PO Box 50361, Jax Beach, FL 32250 Phone: (904) 223-0461 Website: www.drhector.com e-mail: drhector2000@cs.com
Mel Brown and the Homewreckers
Homewreckin’ Done Live
(Electro-Fi Records © 2001 E-Fi 3370)
by Tim Holek
At blues festivals throughout the country, 2001 W.C. Handy Award Winner Mel Brown proves to be the most authentic, real blues artist on the bill. Born in Jackson, Mississippi, Brown grew up in a family where playing music was as instinctive as breathing the Delta air. He has shared the stage with the greats and has been both Bobby ‘Blue’ Bland’s and Albert Collins’ regular guitarist. He relocated to Kitchener, Ontario, Canada for a steady gig in 1989 and has remained there ever since. Recorded live in 1998 at Wally’s Pub in Guelph, Ontario, this recording was previously only available off the bandstand.
Mel doesn’t mesmerize with speed but rather chooses to hypnotize with smooth, sharp, precise note pickin’ which is unique. Imagine what you would get if you removed the aggression from Son Seals and added the grace of Johnnie Bassett. You have heard the songs countless times in the past (they are all covers and standards) but not in this manner thanks to the brilliance of Brown and keyboardist John Lee. This is soul stirring blues at its finest. What we have here, is the standard for all future live blues recordings.
For CDs, booking and information, write to: Electro-Fi Records, PO Box 191, LaSalle Station, Niagara Falls, NY 14304 Tel (416) 251-3036. E-mail: electrofi@hotmail.com Website: www.electrofi.com
Henry Gray & The Cats
Live - Blues Won’t Let Me Take My Rest
(Lucky Cat Records © 1999 LC 1001)
by Tim Holek
Henry Gray hails from just outside New Orleans. At the age of eight, he began to demonstrate his talent on piano. In 1956, he joined Howlin' Wolf’s band where he remained until 1968. Henry is now considered one of the best living exponents of the Windy City piano blues style. You will come to the same conclusion after experiencing this phenomenal live disc. Recorded at Grant Street in Lafayette, Louisiana on March 19, 1999, it is Henry’s first live performance to ever be released. Its a lively 72 minute set of danceable blues and early rock and roll including 4 originals.
Henry is backed by a tight band of experienced and talented musicians. Sonny Landreth and Martin Simpson’s slide guitars create a unique brand of spicy blues while Earl Christopher’s drumming is stomping and sweaty. Brian Bruce’s wizardry on harmonica will have many referring to him as Superharp while Eric Aceto proves there is a home for the fiddle in blues music. Long-time bassist of the Cats, Andy Cornett, introduces Gray as the engineer on the piano. At the time of this recording Henry was 74 years old and Cornett openly admits that he couldn’t keep up with him.
Although a similarity of keys and shuffles feature in the songs, Gray’s barrelhouse runs will enrapture his listeners. In fact, most of the keys take a beating from Gray. None of them are safe from the two-fisted, feisty bluesman. This recording is the epitome of Henry Gray live. It’s simple, straight to the point and packed with a wallop.
For CDs, booking and information, write to: Lucky Cat Records, 226 Jackson St., Lafayette, LA 70501 Tel (337) 269-5153 E-mail: ac2525@bellsouth.net Website: www.henrygray.com
Louisiana Red
Driftin’
(Earwig Music Company © 1999 Earwig CD 4947)
by Tim Holek
If you are looking for the finest in both acoustic and electric Chicago blues then walk, I mean run out and pick up this disc by Louisiana Red. On his third release for Chicago’s Earwig label, Red delivers an hour long ride where he handles lead guitar/vocals on 15 tracks of which 11 are originals about real life experiences. This album reunites the band from his second Earwig album. The richly talented band includes: Willie Kent bass; Dave Jefferson drums; Allen Batts piano; Willie "Big Eyes" Smith harmonica, and Brian Bisesi rhythm guitar.
Even though he hasn’t spent his entire life in Chicago, you’ll never know it by his guitar work. Be rest assured, this is down to earth real blues played the way it was meant to be. Purists will love this release in its entirety while others will have a preference for either the acoustic or electric material. Either way, lets hope there are more recordings from these sessions that can make up another release! Producer Michael Robert Frank summarizes things perfectly in his insightful liner notes, ‘Many musicians play the blues. Louisiana Red lives them.’
For CDs, booking and information, contact: Earwig Music Company Inc., 1818 West Pratt Boulevard, Chicago, IL 60626-3120 USA (773) 262-0278
website: www.earwigmusic.com
Various Artists
Blind Pig Records 25th Anniversary Collection
(Blind Big Records © 2001 BPCD 2002)
by Tim Holek
America’s premier blues and roots label is celebrating their silver anniversary in style. The 25th Anniversary Collection is comprised of 2 audio CDs, a video CD and a multi-page booklet saturated with photos and extensive liner notes. In all there is a total of 42 selections lasting approximately 170 minutes and you get it all for the price of a single disc! Talk about being happier than a pig in shit.
The label began humbly in the basement of an Ann Arbor, Michigan blues club in 1977. Over the years, the label has naturally progressed to the point where it specializes in all types of roots music. They are all included in this collection: contemporary blues, rap’n blues, Delta blues, progressive blues, rock’n blues, Texas blues, harmonica blues, gospel, Chicago blues, soul, rockabilly, R&B, acoustic blues, zydeco, big band, boogie woogie, West Coast blues, country blues, and real blues.
From blues aficionados to blues newbies to existing pork fans to those new to the pig pen, there is something here for everyone. Edward Chmelewski and Jerry Del Giudice have produced a brilliant collection that will stand the test of time. Congratulations Blind Pig. May you forever reside in hog heaven.
For CDs, booking and information, contact: Blind Big Records, PO Box 2344, San Francisco, CA 94126 website: www.blindpigrecords.com In Canada, Blind Pig is distributed by Stony Plain Records www.stonyplainrecords.com
Deborah Coleman
Livin’ On Love
(Blind Big Records © 2001 BPCD 5070)
by Tim Holek
This 43 minute, Jim Gaines produced disc leaves no time to lose interest. On it, Coleman’s Joan Osborne and Chrissie Hynde sounding vocals are beefed up by her fierce guitar playing on all 11 tracks. As she is a hopeless romantic, many of the songs are about love and relationships including the 6 originals. You will hear: re-worked classics, aggressive rockers, shuffles and slow burning hot flames that are radio-friendly. Throughout the vocal harmonies with Reba Russell are breathtaking.
Playing guitar has opened a lot of doors for Deborah Coleman and as a result she feels married to the six string. The Portsmouth, Virginia native plays well timed lead guitar and impresses with quality instead of quantity. Far too many of the current contemporary blues players get this the other way around. On her 4th Blind Pig release, Deborah proves she can write 12 bar blues and pop. She is one of today’s finest cross over artists taking the blues on a new journey.
For CDs, booking and information, contact: Blind Big Records, PO Box 2344, San Francisco, CA 94126 website: www.blindpigrecords.com In Canada, Blind Pig is distributed by Stony Plain Records www.stonyplainrecords.com
David Gogo
Halfway To Memphis
(Cordova Bay Records © 2001 CBR 0232)
by Tim Holek
There is a new blues-rocker on the scene and he comes screaming and wailing like a banshee. The Nanaimo, British Columbia native aspired to be like Stevie Ray. A chance meeting with his idol provided the needed encouragement to try it in the music business. Gogo’s band quickly jumped to the point where they were opening for blues legends touring western Canada. This led to solo deal with EMI/Capitol. Due to changes at Capitol, his debut didn’t receive a US release. So he parted ways with the huge label and settled on Canadian indie Cordova Bay.
This is his 4th release for the label which has been able to give him worldwide exposure. 11 tracks including 4 originals crank for 60 scorching minutes. There is plenty of classic material from the likes of Muddy Waters, Howlin’ Wolf, John Lee Hooker and Willie Dixon. Gogo delivers his vocals the way he plays lead guitar and that is with plenty of fierce aggression. Throughout the self-produced disc, David features his celebrated wicked slide work. Of course the SRV-influence creeps out regularly. If you are looking for screeching hard and heavy blues-rock then get yourself Halfway To Memphis.
For CDs, booking and information, contact: Cordova Bay Records, 3717 Harriet Road, Victoria, BC Canada V8Z 3T3 website: www.cordovabay.com Artist website: www.davidgogo.org
Return To Stocking Stuffer part 3
Return To Stocking Stuffer part 2
Return To Stocking Stuffer part 1
These reviews are copyright © 2001 by the writers and Blues On Stage at: www.mnblues.com, 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.