Having better than four decades of experience under his belt at the piano, Nat Dove is a force to be reckoned with and "Deep Blues Experience" shows his muscular approach over a dozen well-chosen covers. Clocking in at over an hour of playing time, there's plenty to like here. Recorded in Japan with a cast of determined and potent sidemen, everything is in order, but just ragged enough to have the right feel and effect. The blistering rendition of Earl Gaines' "24 Hours" gets solid treatment and the sparks fly on Muddy's "Honey Bee" where Nagasaki Slim, possessor of one of the better names in blues, tosses out some fine harp licks. "Next Time You See Me" is effortless as is Freddy King's "Tore Down," with solid guitar from Tad Miura, and Lowell Fulson's "Reconsider Baby" goes straight into the alley. Dove's piano skills perhaps show best on the smoldering "As The Years Go Passing By" and a fine version of "I'm Ready" delivers well. Leroy Carr's "In The Evening" is a gripping slow blues with workmanlike vocals and a dazzling display of 88-key talent. Dove and his fine band also tackle "Mother In Law Blues," Percy Mayfield's "Please Send Me Someone To Love," and Willie Dixon's "Close To You" and "Wang Dang Doodle," in addition to another Waters' classic, "Got My Mojo Working." Dove's cohorts play with respect and restraint, but if there's one small complaint, it's that there's not enough spotlight for his assistants. Very worthwhile. For more information, visit: http://www.geocities.co.jp/MusicStar-Vocal/7487/news_e.html or: Natdove@aol.com - for email. Nat's contact is the Boogie Blues Connection - 4160 Hillcrest Dr. #3 - Los Angeles, CA - 90008.
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