Brooklyn native Steve Freund settled in the Windy City back in the 70s and began a blues apprenticeship that was marshaled by Sunnyland Slim and also found him working with Koko Taylor, Floyd Jones, Big Walter Horton, and James Cotton. In the 90s he moved to California befriending and working with Boz Scaggs. Steve still lives out West, but he commands a deep respect amongst the Chicago players and others on the blues scene.
That is witnessed by the cornucopia of bluesmen that have come out to play on this release. Bassists Bob Stroger and Harlan Terson join in, as does drummer Kenny Smith. Mark 'Mr. B' Braun plays the piano, and Steve Guyger catches the harp work. Guitarists Dave Specter and Pete Crawford help out; and the horns are: Clark Dean, Van Kelly, and Dave Clark on the saxes, Brian Schwab on the trumpet and Steve Horne on the trombone.
The title tune starts it all with Freund displayin' his tactical command of the guitar; the slow groove fashioned is strong. Next is B.B.'s "Fine Lookin' Woman", and it comes off with some mighty fine ivory work by Mr. B.. Hear Freund and Braun run co-leads on "Hung Down Head", then cut to brilliant horn interplay on "Fittin' To Go", a driven instrumental. Seven tunes here bear Freund's name and choice selections like Tampa Red's "Rambler's Blues", Big Bill Broonzy's "Ramblin' Bill", Eddie Jone's "Something To Remember You By", and his tribute to Sunnyland "When I Was Young" makes for a nice set.
Freund is atop his Chicago stylings, and convincingly has put out a release worthy of awards. These blues come straight down the pipe without any nasty leftover tastes. Powerhouse piano from Braun, fitting horn arrangements, and guitar work beyond complaint. Working-man vocals fit the bill as well. Hey, what's not to like?
Delmark Records; 4121 N. Rockwell; Chicago, IL 60618: or, www.delmark.com
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This review is copyright © 2002 by Mark A. Cole, and Blues On Stage at: www.mnblues.com, all rights reserved. Copy, duplication or download prohibited without written permission.
For permission to use this review please email Ray Stiles at: mnblues@aol.com
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