Blues On Stage - Deborah Coleman

CD Review
Deborah Coleman
"Where Blue Begins"
Blind Pig - BPCD5048
by Dave "Doc" Piltz

Over the years, there have been a number of excellent female blues and blues/rock guitarists in the music business. Bonnie Raitt and Melissa Etheridge have become superstars in the industry and others, including Joanna Connor, Debbie Davies and Susan Tedeschi have displayed some significant creativity and skill in their guitarwork. Where Blue Begins is the latest CD by another formidable female guitarist and singer, Deborah Coleman.

Where Blue Begins is Deborah Coleman's third CD release and, quite possibly, her best. Backed by The James Solberg Band (the late Luther Allison's able-bodied supporting cast), Coleman delivers some fine lead and slide guitar on the CD's eleven songs, including seven Coleman original compositions. The CD also includes a guest appearance by another guitar phenom, Joanna Connor, who plays some excellent slide guitar on James Solberg's, "Nobody to Blame."

Whether it is on the driving "Do You Want My Love"; the slow blues of "The Dream"; or the jazzy Louis Jordan tune, "They Raided the Joint," Coleman provides entertaining lead solos and demonstrates versatility in her style of play. Her guitar does not overpower the songs on the CD, but instead blends right into the fabric of the song performed to provide a clean, tight sound.

Coleman is no slouch as a vocalist either. She has an low, interesting and soulful voice that some would probably describe as sultry. Admittedly, I was not attracted to her voice at first. However, through multiple exposures to this CD, I have grown to enjoy her vocals more and more.

This is a well put together and fine sounding recording. The tight, professional sound of The James Solberg Band goes a long way to enhance Coleman's performance on the CD and has increased my desire to see her perform live. Where Blue Begins is a fine CD and quite representative of Deborah Coleman's talent as a guitarist and vocalist.

E-mail Ray Stiles at: mnblues@aol.com