This is an Australian release heavy on the Rock and Funky side of the Blues. In fact, it is NOT Blues at all, but has some of the qualities one listens for in Blues music. Harper has released a disc that features only original songs, and many of them have great lyrics and compositional values. His style is definitely his own, and he has much to say through-out the course of the 46 minute CD.
Songs like "You Don't Have To Explain Yourself", "I Wonder" and "Mystery" really touch on the shared human sorrow of lost and unrequited love, grief and passion. Although the songs have rock guitar breaks and very contemporary sounding harmonica, there is a sense of timelessness that draws the listener in and keeps you there.
"I Really Don't Know" starts out with a funky wah-wah guitar and harmonica duet that is totally appropriate to the demeanor of the song. It's a good dance tune, as are many of the selections on the disc. This is a good CD for the dance-party set, and it's a real breath of fresh air for the Rocked-up set, with all original lyrics and interesting instrumentation (actually featuring the Aboriginal Digerie-Do on one cut)! Harper has the propensity to play John Popper-ish type harp solos, so if the fluid style of the Blues Traveler is what floats your boat, this CD is a must have for your collection. The over all production values are top-notch, with some real nice vocals backed by beautifully played slide guitar, (especially on "I Swear I'm Innocent").
The last tune "As Strange As It Seems" intros with another funky-sounding bass and drum lead in. Surprisingly, the guitar and vocal have a scary "Old West" feeling, and the harp is almost nuclear when it drops in for solos, with the guitar hammering a powerful line reminiscent of rock classic "Ironman". The song is an interesting blending of funk, classic/acid rock and Spaghetti-Western style music that is very appealing. It really has a sound all it's own and is my favorite on the disc.
It's nice to know that our friends "Down Under" are really into producing their own brand of Blues-based music, and Harper does a great job of showcasing his and his band's talents. Harper is sponsored by The Harp Depot, and he has other products available via inter net .
Harper is noted as Australia's "Heavy Weight" harmonica player, and has a N. American and Australian tour booked. You can learn more about him at his web site www.harper.biz .
1961 Rice St., Roseville, MN. USA 5113
miki@utrmusicgroup.com
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