This is Big Dave’s second disc - the first, recorded live, is currently only available at gigs - and it’s a tasty platter of traditional blues. Big Dave stays acoustic throughout, on both national steel and regular six-string guitars, and adds some excellent harp. Colin plays mostly acoustic as well - only a couple of tracks feature his electric work. They’re joined by a full band on most cuts, with a few duets - just the two of them on guitars - judiciously spaced throughout the set. Cut in just three days, the result is a relaxed sounding session, with almost a "front porch" feel to it all.

Dave’s voice is appealingly gruff, and he sings with unhurried ease - nothing forced here, it all seems to come effortlessly and naturally. (28 years of payin’ dues will do that!)

The song list sticks mostly to standards (only one original), with nods to Elmore James, Jimmy Reed, Muddy, and a couple by Willie Dixon. But we don’t usually hear them done like this, with acoustic guitars instead of screaming electrics - so there’s a fresh feel to every tune, and Dave manages to put his stamp on each one. And just try sitting still through his take on Taj Mahal’s "Cakewalk Into Town," a rollicking romp down a dirt road. If you’re not tappin’ your toes to this one, check your pulse - you may well be dead!

If there’s a single negative to this disc, it’s that at 39 minutes it’s a little short by today’s CD standards. I’m not complaining from a value standpoint, I just want more, more, ‘cause it’s all so good. Let’s hope there’s another soon!

This review is copyright © 2000 by John Taylor, and Blues On Stage, all rights reserved. Copy, duplication or download prohibited without written permission. For permission to use this review please send an E-mail to Ray Stiles.