The title of the disc is deceptive. Given that there is no artist credited as the proprietor of the collection, one might naturally assume this to be a compilation disc of sorts. It is a compilation, but not the sort we've grown used to. This is a collection of 40+ musicians playing the music of Pete Thelen, apparently a well known Arizona blues figure. This is the second in a series that started with Volume II.
The opening number, "Wind Up From Mexico," is the highlight of the set. Lester Chambers (of the brothers fame) is alive and kicking and singing better than ever. The stripped down blues spotlights Chambers vocals and harp and KK Martin's fine guitar. Former Howlin' Wolf drummer Chico Chism takes the vocals for "Blues Today," and fiddler Jan Parry and guitarist and vocalist Charlie Prazma turn in a great back porch/jugband "Thumbnail Moon." Fine licks aplenty here, though there are a couple of less than inspired numbers, as well. Rena Haus, an inductee into the Phoenix Blues Hall of Fame, proves why she belongs there with a strong husky voiced take on "Second Shoe." Carey Slade has a voice to keep an ear out for. Her work on "Lovers" is impressive. Other vocal performances are offered from Linda Moss, Vince Micko, Mike King, and Wayne Bruno (ex-Sam the Sham and the Pharoahs). Mr. Thelen takes a turn at singing on the closing "Reunion," proving that he's a fine lyricist.
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This review is copyright © 2002 by Mark E. Gallo, and Blues On Stage at: www.mnblues.com, all rights reserved. Copy, duplication or download prohibited without written permission.
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