This polished seven piece band was founded by lead singer and harmonica player, Ernie Pinata. Pinata's voice is powerful, yet playful. His vocals on "One More Heartache" are reminiscent of Blood, Sweat and Tear's David Clayton-Thomas. Pinata plays the harp with emotion and excitement! His captivating harp playing on "Take Off Your Pajamas" and "Take Your Hand Outta My Pocket" teases, then explodes with excitement.

The horn section of Mike Quinlan, Scott Johnston, and Larry Jonutz is tight, yet explosive, shining throughout the CD. Johnston's superlative sax playing is enhanced by his sweet, sultry tone. The instrumental solos by all the musicians are sizzling! Bobby Delgado's strong guitar playing leads the band into the title track, "Take Off Your Pajamas." The lyrics mirror the fun, steamy sound with, "Take off your pajamas, baby...Girl I wanna see what this fuss is all about..." The guys here know how to share the spotlight and play off of each other in order to create a fantastic sound that really gels!

Though only two of the CD's tracks are originals ("Weary Man" and "Take Off Your Pajamas"), nine of the other songs are Delta Wires' arrangements. John Lee Hooker's, "Dimples" showcases the strong rhythm section with bass player Tom Gerrits and percussionist Rene Escovedo. These guys will make ya wanna move....and "how, how, how, how!" J. Watson's, "Too Tired" is a fun classic tune, as well as Kahal and Fain's, "Everyday I Have the Blues."

The Delta Wires have been favorites at Bay Area Blues Festivals and clubs for almost thirty years! Pick up this CD, treat yourself to a listen, and see what the fuss is all about!

Website: www.deltawires.com
Mud Slide Records
Diana Toutjian ddtoutji@dreyers.com
PO Box 55150
Hayward, CA 94545
(510) 888-4599

This review is copyright © 1999 by Lisa Gault, and Blues On Stage, all rights reserved.