Those familiar with Mike Morgan and The Crawl's previous seven Black Top label recordings will definitely want to add this latest offering from Mike and this "Crawl" lineup to the collection. As Mike shuffles the members of the band around on each new recording it's always to get the intended sound for the project at hand and his role this time as producer/artist is exceptional. This self produced disc on Severn Records gets added muscle with help from fellow Texans Jon Moeller and Anson Funderburgh admirably handling rhythm guitar on several cut along with notable support from Gary Primich on harp. Stepping into the spotlight on vocals, Morgan demonstrates a new dimension to complement his considerable talent as a lead guitarist. While on past outings he was content to feature other members of The Crawl on vocals, Mike's interpretation of Hound dog Taylor's "Gimme Back My Wig" and the title penned by Mike himself "Texas Man" begs the question why so long in stepping up to the microphone. Elmore James' "Wild About You" gets a powerful working over with some tasteful and gritty slide work. Westside Chicago blues fans will discover a real gem in "I Had To Put You Down" featuring Gary Primich's Little Walter inspired harp work and Morgan's vocals sung through a harmonica microphone for a powerfully distorted punch.
As Mike matures as a vocalist he will no doubt add a new dimension to his solid reputation as one of the most versatile blues musicians today. I once asked Shawn Pittman who were some of his influences and the first name mentioned was Mike Morgan, who Shawn actually took lessons from for some time. With the release of "Texas Man" Mike continues to further the Texas style of blues and make new fans as well as keep loyal fans coming back for more. Wever you are you you'll want to pick up this one! Contact www.severnrecords.com for more information, or www.summitartists.com/mikemorgan, Email: mikemorgan27@hotmail.com
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