I work at a music store and host a blues program on the radio. I noticed a CD in the store that I hadn't seen at the radio station and wondered about this guy. "This guy" happens to be Mark Selby. Not a household name in the world of blues but I suspect that could change upon listening to this CD.
From looking at the cover of his CD one could guess that Mark Selby is a power blues guitarist. His playing commands the listeners' attention from the "get-go." he plays some good, clean slide guitar licks a la Duane Allman on " Don't You Throw That Mojo On Me". He plays some nice acoustic slide on " More Storms Comin'". Although his guitar playing is prominent on every song, he is able to keep the rhythm parts in the background and turn up the solos just when called for. Selby isn't just about fast power
chords and notes all over the place. his pacing, timing , and making a statement at the right time is what he is about.
One of Mark Selby's strength's is his songwriting ability. He has written for Kenny Wayne Shepard, Wynonna Judd and the Dixie Chicks. More Storm's Comin' doesn't have a single cover tune among the eleven songs. All the songs were written by Shelby and his co-writer Tia Sillers. The exception is the song " You're Gonna Miss My Love", which was co-written by Craig Fuller.
The vocals are the weakest link here. Selby doesn't have the most memorable voice in blues-rock but it is entirely serviceable. He doesn't attempt songs that are out of his range or sing off-key. Like his co-writer Craig Fuller, Selby's vocals are highly reminiscent of Little Feat's Fuller and Paul Barrere. When you hear his vocals they sound familiar because of that association.
Having never previously heard of Mark Selby, I was pleasantly surprised by this CD. Because you don't know him doesn't mean you won't like him. I think you'll be in for a treat listening to More Storms Comin.
www.vanguardrecords.com/selby
This review is copyright © 2001 by Putnay 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.
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