McDonald's "Spirit", though released in '99, carries a feel of traditional quality. The opening song "That's My Baby" churns with a boogie woogie piano opening, and the voice of Raymond Victor, that is soul shaking. This entire disc weaves in varying directions of Blues, in a nearly "How-to" fashion. World Talent Records is a fresh independent label, and this self produced effort rings of simple meat and potatoes recording methods mixed with current technology, making a fine palette for the wide
array of Blues styles covered here.
The disc sleeve doesn't mention who wrote the songs, but it does mention the names of the talented musicians performing on the recording. They are Forrest McDonald on guitar and vocals, Raymond Victor-lead vocals and keyboards, Diane Dutra-bass, "Cap" Capdeville-drums and Dave Parnell-saxophone and vocals. McDonald executes clean licks with great feel and emphasis on tone. Combined with the Raymond Victor Band makes on wonder when they might be playing nearby. An interesting piece of trivia this reviewer discovered, Forrest McDonald performed the solo on Bob Seger's classic hit "Old Time Rock'n'Roll!"
For more information about Forrest McDonald and his current releases, visit the World Talent Records Headquarters web site at www.wtrhq.com/.
This review is copyright © 2001 by Minnesota Max Tomoson, 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.
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