The water in Fargo must be contaminated with a major dose of the blues, which has been having a strong effect on the younger population. Jonny Lang is not the only blues artist from the North Dakotan town to impact others with his music. Following in his footsteps is 13 year old, Shannon Curfman. She's another talented blues artist who's been rockin' the Midwest with her cool, nitty-gritty, rhythm and blues for quite some time. Some reviewers have referred to her as "The Princess Of Soul."
One of the first questions that raced through my mind while listening to Shannon's first CD release, "Loud Guitars, Big Suspicions," was, "How does one so young pay her dues, in order to belt out the blues, like one who has experienced the trials and tribulations of life?" Regardless of Shannon's short lived experience; her funky beat and lyrics lured me in. Her CD opened with a powerful tune, "Few and Far Between." Her voice resonates a lot of soul, generating a ton of energy that grabs hold, and doesn't let go for most of her CD. It makes you think that a woman in her 30's is belting out the sophisticated, sultry notes in her ballads.
Not only does Curfman sing, she also plays the lead guitar on most of her tracks, with Jonny Lang accompanying her on three of them. She also co-wrote several of the songs with the help of her friends, Jonny Lang, Bruce McCabe, and Kevin Bowe, to name a few. I thought the lyrics were original and creative. Yet, I still wonder how someone of her age finds the wisdom to write about love and life. A few other songs I enjoyed were "No Riders." Its rhythmic speed increased note by note, giving the sensation I was traveling on a train. I also thought, "Love Me Like That," "Hard To
Make A Stand," "I'm Coming Home," and "True Friends," were compelling melodies as well.
Shannon Curfman no longer drinks the Fargo water; she now resides in Minneapolis. She's been performing since she was seven years old, and has had the opportunity to open for many other talents, such as Tab Benoit, Delbert Clinton, The Fabulous Thunderbirds, Steve Miller, and Jeff Healy. Several reviewers have stated that Shannon Curfman may be the next Jonny Lang. Whether she becomes the next Lang or not, her new CD is one to check out. If you want more information on where to get Curfman's new CD, you can contact Jake Walesch at 612-379-0500. Or visit the website at: www.shannoncurfman.com
This review is copyright © 1999 by Mia Barker, and Blues On Stage, all rights reserved.