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Tab Benoit
Wetlands
(Telarc Records, 2002 CD-83530)
by Tim Holek
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Louisiana is known for its culturally rich heritage. Spawned by the cross-pollination of French-Canadian refugees and African slaves, the state is known best for its hybrid music and savory food. On his Telarc debut, native son Tab Benoit celebrates his Louisiana ancestry using his sturdy vocals, definitive guitar playing and distinctive songwriting. He boldly declares his lineage via 13 songs which converge many musical genres. His stripped down bass and drum accompaniment allows him to be front and center for the disc's 57 minutes.
Prodigiously talented Tab Benoit has released a disc full of indigenous music. Expect everything from swampy ballads to brisk shuffles and everything in between. He even manages to get accordion and rubboard sounds out of his Telecaster. Where else could such a disc have been recorded but in Louisiana? Sure the songs start to sound familiar but they are tantalizing. Tab's leathery voice and gleaming guitar promise a mighty future for this artist who isn't even 40 years old yet.
For additional information, contact: www.telarc.com and www.tabbenoit.com
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James Cotton
35th Anniversary Jam
(Telarc Records, 2002 CD-83550)
by Tim Holek
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In the royalty line of the blues, James Cotton was knighted long ago. At an early age, Tunica, Mississippi-born Cotton fell under the trance of Sonny Boy Williamson and became his protégé. In 1954, James was appointed as Muddy Waters harpist. This gig lasted for the next 12 years. No longer content to play Little Walter riffs note for note, Cotton left the Muddy Waters Band and struck out as a solo act in 1966. By now a harmonica virtuoso, James had limited troubles putting together an all-star cast of his own. The 35th Anniversary Jam is a celebration of the James Cotton Band's long-standing success. This fiery release is a welcome return to the High Compression era and it's easily the biggest, baddest blues bash on either side of the Mississippi. An impressive number of guest musicians partake in the festivities.
Extremely confidant core band-members Mike Williams (rhythm guitar) and Per Hanson (drums) are further joined by: Tab Benoit, Ronnie Hawkins, Syl Johnson, Maria Muldaur, Jimmie Vaughan and Kim Wilson. This disc is living proof that Sir Superharp isn't slowing down quite yet. In fact, you will wonder where he gets his energy to keep blowing and how his harmonica keeps from falling apart.
For additional information, contact: www.telarc.com and www.jamescottonsuperharp.com
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Jimmy Thackery and The Drivers
We Got It
(Telarc Records, 2002 CD-83540)
by Tim Holek
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In a world of similar sounding blues releases, this disc dynamically stands out. For his Telarc debut, Jimmy Thackery looked to Muscle Shoals legend Eddie Hinton and found a musical fortune. For 53 crafty minutes, Thackery pays tribute to Hinton by covering 8 of his songs and adding 3 of his own. Thackery's originals mesh nicely amongst Hinton's yet the latter's are of a different caliber. Together it makes for one of the year's best contemporary soul/blues/R&B records. None of the aggressive style of blues performed by Thackery's Drivers is found here. If that is the Jimmy Thackery that you are looking for, check out the back catalog.
For additional information, contact: www.telarc.com and www.jimmythackery.com
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Syl & Jimmy Johnson
Two Johnsons Are Better Than One
(Evidence Music, 2002 ECD 26122-2)
by Tim Holek
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Many have dreamt of recording these 2 equally talented and successful brothers together. However, only Evidence Music has been able to turn the fantasy into a reality. For 61 delirious minutes, the brothers perform 14 original soul, traditional blues, and funk songs backed by Syl's musically adept band. Overall, Syl handles more lead vocals whereas Jimmy controls more lead guitar.
When it comes to blues brothers, these guys are the real deal. Syl is considered a southern R&B artist and is best known for his many soul hits on Hi Records. Jimmy is known as Chicago's most emotional and distinctive blues performer. Their songs are as greasy as they are sleek and their musicianship is stellar. Many styles of blues are represented on this historic disc which does not evenly distribute its material amongst the brothers. At a minimum, this CD is worthy of a Handy Award nomination.
For further information, contact: Evidence Music Inc., 1110 E. Hector Street, Suite 392, Conshohocken, PA 19428 USA Tel: (610) 832-0844 Email: evidencemusic@aol.com
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Melvin Taylor
Rendezvous With The Blues
(Evidence Music, 2002 ECD 26123-2)
by Tim Holek
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If you enjoy the new wave of Chicago Blues guitar (Rico McFarland, Lurrie Bell, Ronnie Baker Brooks, etc) than here is a fiery disc for you. Melvin Taylor doesn't cross the blues-rock border as frequent as Brooks but rather chooses to combine jazz, pop and funk into his style of feverish blues. After listening to "Rendezvous", you will be convinced that there isn't a finer smooth jazz and contemporary blues guitarist on the scene today.
Even though the 10 sharp tracks on this Memphis-recorded, 55 minute disc are all covers, most are lesser known material. The well known stuff receives a unique twist which keeps it fresh. On this CD, Taylor is reunited with Lucky Peterson -- having last recorded with him in 1984. Melvin Taylor is always in control while his fire is burning. His aggressive guitar comes with plenty of pedal effects and attitude. That rebellious break-with-tradition attitude comes across in the liner notes. Evidence Music may not be a Chicago-based label. However, they have the insight and foresight to record younger Chicago artists who need exposure through rousing releases like this.
For further information, contact: Evidence Music Inc., 1110 E. Hector Street, Suite 392, Conshohocken, PA 19428 USA Tel: (610) 832-0844 Email: evidencemusic@aol.com
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The Motor City Rhythm & Blues Pioneers
The Motor City Rhythm & Blues Pioneers
(Blue Suit Records, 2002 BS-117D)
by Tim Holek
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Rhythm and Blues music may have fallen from the limelight but it never really disappeared in Detroit. People who have followed the Detroit music scene since the mid-fifties, will instantly recognize the names of Joe Weaver, Stanley Mitchell and Kenny Martin. Each of these celebrated vocalists had exciting careers in the vibrant R&B scene that preceded the Motown era. As you can imagine, a disc by any one of these gentlemen would be distinctive but combining all 3 on the same CD is pure ecstasy. The majority of the 13 exquisite tracks on this 48 minute recording were either written by Joe, Stanley and Kenny or members of the affluent backing band, RJ Spangler's Rhythm Rockers.
It is still mystifying to learn (via Willy Wilson's insightful liner notes) that this R&B renaissance had its start at an afternoon barbecue. You will be pleasantly shocked to find they still make records like this. Although this style of music no longer gets much airplay or attention from the music media, Blue Suit Records needs to be commended for releasing it. The songs on this disc were performed and recorded as in the glory days of R&B. Even the new material seamlessly meshes with well-established songs from the 50s. This is life-embracing and soul-stirring music of the highest caliber.
For CDs, booking and information, contact: Blue Suit Records, PO Box 35207, Toledo, OH USA 43625-2707 website: www.blue-suit.com e-mail: rjblues2@aol.com
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Joe Louis Walker
In The Morning
(Telarc Records, 2002 CD-83541)
by Tim Holek
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Joe Louis Walker has joined forces with Telarc and his 53 minute debut for the label will appeal to many. This isn't traditional blues nor is it cranking blues-rock. It is a reflection of the full spectrum of the blues genre. The disc's 10 songs are predominantly original and come modern-flavored with upbeat, catchy rhythms and some country honk patterns. Walker is a very controlled musician. The only thing that he can't restrain are his enthusiastic and excited screams which appear on many tracks.
The new disc was recorded in Portland, Maine and constructed by Telarc's production master, Randy Labbe. The output is so clear, the music jumps right out of your speakers and into your room. Sure, large labels have more money to spend on production and packaging. However; that won't mask talent if it isn't there. The fact is the songs and the performances on this disc are so good, the CD would sell if it came in a candy wrapper. Many long for a world where you can turn on the radio and hear wide-appealing blues - this is that type of blues. The CD's arrangements make Walker stand out in the crowded world of blues guitar slinging singers.
For additional information, contact: www.telarc.com
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David Gogo
Skeleton Key
(Cordova Bay, 2002)
by Tim Holek
On this 55 minute, 15 track disc, Gogo matures as a musician and songwriter. Half of the content is original material. Even though the non-originals are performed with Gogo's own twists, his songwriting has become so strong that covers are no longer required. The screeching wild banshee blasts from previous CDs (like Halfway To Memphis) have almost been put to rest with the exception of "It Don't Make Sense". Sure, in-your-face rockers such as "Stay Away From My Home" and "Things Are About To Change" are still present but they are performed in a more controlled fashion. The new Gogo has as much energy but more intelligently discharges it. David Gogo is classified as a blues-rocker but you won't find much blues here. However if your tastes warm to heavy hitters and pop ballads that are joyous, fun, alternative, funky and soulful then this Key will appeal to you.
For CDs, booking and information, contact: Cordova Bay Entertainment Group Inc., 5159 Beckton Road, Victoria, BC Canada V8Y 2C2 website: www.cordovabay.com Artist website: www.davidgogo.org
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Anthony Gomes
Unity
(33rd Street Records, 2002 3313)
by Tim Holek
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Producer Jim Gaines will become known as the man responsible for putting Anthony Gomes on the roots music map. His production of Unity is as phenomenal as his work for Santana, Walter Trout and Luther Allison and will surely have similar career results for Gomes. Jim captures the experience of all 12 original numbers. Part of the magical chemistry must be due to the recordings taking place in Chicago, Memphis and Nashville. On his first release for Tower Records' 33rd Street label, Anthony brings together brass-blasting funk, soul, R&B, gospel and blues.
If for some strange reason Gomes doesn't leave a mark on contemporary blues (as a performer) surely his songs will. If you didn't look at the cover, nothing about this disc would reveal Anthony's youth. Without a doubt, he is vocally and musically ahead of his time. Throughout 54 progressive minutes, he delivers powerful and harsh vocals in the vein of Delbert McClinton. His guitar work is stellar and on each pumping track he exudes the fact that he feels his music in his soul. Gomes isn't one to simply go though the motions. Want to enjoy tomorrow's blues today? Then unite with the steamy, hip-grindin', funkified blues of Anthony Gomes.
For booking and information, contact: www.anthonygomes.com
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Willie Kent
Comin' Alive!
(Blue Chicago Records, 2001 BC 5006)
by Tim Holek
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"Comin' Alive" is the first release on the Blue Chicago label to focus on a single artist. On it Willie Kent, Chicago's premier bass player, and His Gents are conventional yet invigorating. Kent has spent most of his career in Chi-town and ever since the 1950s has played with the city's blues greats. With little fanfare he plays and sings straightforward Chicago style blues. On this self-produced, 60 minute disc, his dignified Gents include Jake Dawson & Haguy King on guitars and Allen Batts on keys.
Each of the 12 songs (10 Kent originals) conjures images about everything that the blues is including: raw strength; on the edge; life's ups and downs; 12 bars; robust guitar and catchy rhythms. The disc's strong-points are Willie's finely tuned bass, admirable vocals and the beefy horns. Honourable mention goes to Haguy King's intense fretboard work and Erskine Johnson's spine-tingling piano solos. The only weakness is that the songs sound too similar. If you aren't quite sure what Chicago blues is, then put on this CD and find out!
For booking and information, contact: www.bluechicago.com
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