CD Review
Tim Gonzales & Friends
Straight From the Heart
SVR Records
by Mark E. Gallo
Review date: October 2004
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"Keeping the Blues Alive Award" Achievement for Blues on the Internet Presented by The Blues Foundation
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Tim Gonzales is one of the best harp players you’ve never heard of. Though he claims an affinity for Butterfield, Little Walter, Musselwhite and George ‘Harmonica’ Smith, he’s no mere disciple. As he proves consistently on this monster disc, he’s an inventive, brilliant player who stands tall with the best players on the scene. The opening “Murdered By Love,” with excellent guitar work by Anthony Gomes and vocals from keyboardist Jimmy Neel, shines the light on Gonzales’ harp burning technique. The following “Groove Thang” is an upbeat workout, while the Gomes-penned “Voodoo Moon” takes it into the swamp by way of some treacherous back alley grooves. On Gonzales’ title piece, he swings hard and blows harp that just dazzles. The version of “Summertime,” with Gonzales taking a vocal turn, is well done, though the following version of “Greyhound Driver” is a shuffle with more conviction. “Walking Blues,” with vocals from guitarist Ricky Godfrey,” is delivered at a medium tempo. Not as impressive at Butterfield’s version, Gonzales blows nice harp, nonetheless. On “Can’t Hold Out,” the harp is centerstage and impressive. “For Mona’s Love” is the standout harp piece on the disc. The clarity and crispness of tone reminds of country harper Charlie McCoy. It’s a melodic piece that grows more impressive with each listen. The closer, “Mississippi Blues,” a duet with Mark Selby on guitar, is a traditional piece that shows off the harp player’s versatility even more. This is a superb self-produced disc that deserves lots of radio play and much wider recognition. Recommended.
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