CD Review
The Blues Kings
"The Blues Kings"
Independent
by Terry Marshall
Review date: December 2000
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1999 KBA Award Winner
Achievement for Blues on the Internet
Presented by the Blues Foundation
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What started out as a session to record several demo songs to land this group of Minneapolis/St. Paul musicians some steady gigs has become one of the best Blues discs to come from the Twin Cities this year. In a town known for its contribution to the ever growing list of exceptional blues artists and groups, this recording really stands out. Dave Larson solidly anchors the rhythm section on drums along with Jack Taylor's expressive bass. Guitarist Jeff Hester effortlessly glides through understated riffs and solos. Jay W. Wilkins fine harmonica work and "made for blues" vocals round out this talented quartet. The objective was to capture the sound of the 50's Chess classics and the outcome is right on the money! The overall feel and unhurried approach sounds exactly like it happened live in the studio on the first (and only) take. There were no overdubs or post session "enhancements." They walked into Brad Moe's Minneapolis Blue Moon Studio May 6, 2000, turned on the the tape, let it roll and twelve of the songs are on this release. All members of the group are veterans of the Twin Cities blues scene and have toured the US and Europe with such acts such as Lynwood Slim, R.J. Mischo, Mojo Buford to name just a few. Covering the blues spectrum with their interpretation of some well known artists like Kim Wilson, Lowell Fulson, "T Bone" Walker, Little Walter, Muddy Waters, Willie Dixon as well as their own material they consistently hit the mark. This is a great disc to put into the player and cruise...in the car, around the house, at work, anywhere the desired mood is relaxed, easy and uncomplicated. The subtleties are evident if listened for, but woven seamlessly into the delivery. The ensemble playing is fluid and choice of material well suited to these talented musicians. This is my kinda music. I highly recommend it, in fact pick up several-- the holidays are coming.
E-mail: jlarson4@aol.com (for ordering information)
This review is copyright © 2000 by Terry Marshall, 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.
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