Heavy jazzy and funky jams abound on this disc by Toronto's Midnite Walk. In the summer of 1993, 4 friends joined together to play the music they love. Guitarist/vocalist Steve Grisbrook formed the band with a vision of performing high-energy rhythm and blues that touched all facets of blues, soul and rock and roll. His humorous side emerges as he states, 'we sound way better than we look'. The disc was planned as a present for the band's loyal fans. It was recorded live at the Club on August 27, 1999 in Toronto. As per Chris Murphy's liner notes, 'there is no glitz, no gimmicks, just honest heartfelt music.' However, the sound of the crowd is filtered out to the point where you wouldn't know its a live disc. Nine songs are included and they are all covers.
"Things Ain't The Way They Used To Be" is an instrumental from the 1940s. All band members including Terry Martell (drums) and Garth Vogan (bass) get a chance to solo on this opening track. Later, they do another instrumental from the same era, "Hucklebuck". It's a real swinging track that gives the band members a chance to once again excel with their improvising. Rod Phillips tackles the vocals on "Gotta Get You Off My Mind" but more confidently struts his stuff on the B3. Undoubtedly, his rich, full-sounding Hammond B3 gives the band their signature tone. They do a tight, slick version of "T Bone Shuffle". Not sure whether I enjoy the organ solo more than the guitar solo which is exactly what makes this band such a pleasure to listen to. There is uptempo groovin' on "Murder On Your Hands" including the sweet, infectious soul soothing notes of Grisbrook. On "Sweet Little Angel", Phillips does not purposely try to steal the show but his B3 commands it! Alongside the thundering organ are more soft, precise, smooth notes from Steve. On "Spooky", they can't resist breaking into a few bars of the ultimate jazz/fusion song by the Allman Brothers, "Elizabeth Reed".
I look forward to their next disc where they will hopefully they leave the comfort zone of covering songs and do some of their own material.
For CDs, booking and information, contact: Steve Grisbrook Tel (416) 694-4656. E-mail: midnite1@istar.ca
This review is copyright © 2001 by Tim Holek, 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.