Special Feature
CD Short Takes
December 1999
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1999 KBA Award Winner Achievement for Blues on the Internet Presented by the Blues Foundation
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Luther Allison
Luther Allison
Johnnie Bassett
Clarence Brewer
R. L. Burnside
Murali Coryell
Pee Wee Crayton
Earl Gaines
Heavy Blues Chevy
Tom Hunter
Luther "Guitar Jr." Johnson
Syl Johnson
Junior Kimbrough
Lamont Cranston
Louisiana Red
Jay McShann
Mike Morgan & The Crawl
Big Bill Morganfield
Van Morrison
Willie Murphy & the Angel Headed Hipsters
Charlie Musselwhite
Charlie Musselwhite
Anders Osborne
Anders Osborne
Wilson Pickett
Tony Price
Yank Rachell
Duke Robillard
Don Scott
Jimi "Prime Time" Smith
Little Al Thomas
Various Artists
Various Artists
Charles Walker
Arthur Williams with Boo Boo Davis
Luther Allison
"Live In Chicago"
(Alligator Records ALCD 4869)
by Dave "Doc" Piltz
Not much else to say here; after all it is Luther Allison. Listening to "Live In Chicago" reminds me of the one time I got to see Luther live and saddens me that such a great talent was lost far too soon.
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Luther Allison
"Live In Chicago"
(Alligator Records ALCD 4869)
by Mark Halverson
It has been a bit over two years since Luther Allison's sudden and premature death on Aug. 12, 1997. Alligator Record's has recently released "Live In Chicago" -- a double disc that hit the bins almost to the date of the second anniversary of Luther's death. This release -- featuring Luther's appearance at the 1995 Chicago Blues Festival (filled out with a few other live cuts of the same vintage) -- immediately shot to the top of the blues charts. Luther was well known to area blues fans, having appeared regularly in this area since the early 1970s. Luther had returned to the US from a longtime Paris expatriation the year before this landmark 1995 Chicago Blues Fest appearance in support of the first of three Alligator recordings released within three years (starting with "Soul Fixin' Man" in 1994). He was at the top of his game, and even before his death had garnered almost every meaningful blues award. He was a blistering guitarist and soulful vocalist who regularly put on spectacularly intense performances. He often played three or four hour shows when he no doubt had contracted only for the standard set(s). This live recording, of course, captures that spirit more than the studio recordings (which are intense in their own right). What we have is without much doubt one of the most powerful of the electric blues guitarist, pushing the envelope of "Chicago style" blues a couple steps further. This is an essential item for any fan of electric blues -- and an excellent tribute to Luther. Alligator records are available through all record retailers. There is a host of Luther info on the WEB. Start with: WWW.blueskyartists.com/Luther/Luther.html & www.beanhollow.com/allison.htm.
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Johnnie Bassett & the Blues Insurgents
"Party My Blues Away"
(Cannonball Records)
by Mike Martindale
These W.C. Handy award winners are no longer the Motor City's best kept secrets and their clean, no-nonsense blues stylings are drawing raves by blues fans who have "discovered" this 64-year-old bluesman.
Website: www.canball.com or Bassett's web page: http://user.aol.com/insurgents/index.html
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Clarence Brewer
"King Clarentz"
(HMG 1007)
by Gordon Baxter
Take R.L. Burnside, add in a bit of John Lee Hooker, some slide guitar that combines elements of Elmore James and Earl Hooker, and top it all off with impassioned vocals. The end result is Clarence Brewer's excellent "King Clarentz" album. It has a raw intensity more usually associated with Fat Possum recordings. The 12 songs (8 originals), cover a variety of topics. The rockabilly-like "Bed Spring Boogie" shows Brewer's sense of humor, while "Fast Food Slow Death" and "Old GOP" show that he also has a handle on contemporary American issues too. Best tracks include the aforementioned "Bed Spring Boogie," the Elmore James-like "Spyin' and Talkin'" the spooky "Halloween Blues" complete with Screamin' Jay Hawkins style vocals, and the stripped down reworking of Robin Trower's "Whiskey Train."
HMG/Hightone Records: www.hightone.com
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R. L. Burnside
"Mississippi Hill Country Blues"
(Swingmaster CD #2201)
by Stephen T. Davidson
Swingmaster’s reissue of R. L. Burnside’s "Mississippi Hill Country Blues" is without a doubt the finest collection of solo acoustic blues ever put out by Mr. Burnside. Many of the jewels contained within are not found on any other Burnside CD and are absolutely essential to complete your library of R.L.s material.
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Murali Coryell
"2120"
(CZYZ CZ-3931-2)
by Mark Halverson
The lineage of this CD alone should intrigue any serious blues fan. It can truly be called a "second generation" project for two reasons. The first is that the 29-year-old artist is the guitar-playing son of jazz-rock fusion guitarist pioneer Larry Coryell. The second is that CZYZ Records is a new label created by Marshall and Kevin Chess, sons of Leonard and Phil Chess respectively, cofounders of the historic Chess blues label which without doubt made more historic blues recordings than any--probably all--other labels. Perhaps not surprisingly, most of the songs done by Murali's guitar-fronted trio are blues standards that were at one time done by Chess artists. Although a trio, this is not your typical "power guitar" band. While preeminent, the guitar is restrained enough to allow the other tracks to shine through. The band is playing together -- rather than trying to outdo one another. Murali plays a gritty guitar and has a soulful voice. He does well with both the vocals and instrumentals. Sort of like the Chess blues recordings. Just the artists giving it their best shot without "over production." I liked most of the songs on this release, finding a couple exceptional. Murali rises to the challenge of covering as many well known blues tunes as he does, giving them a refreshing twist. This release provides some basic good--listening blues. Info about Murali is available at: www.wild-rose.com/blues/murali. The record label's home page is found at http://czyz.com
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Pee Wee Crayton
"Early Hour Blues"
(Blind Pig Records - BPCD5052)
by Dave "Doc" Piltz
The best of the final recordings of one of the creators of the West Coast sound. Unlike some posthumously released "tributes," the quality of this recording and the music are excellent.
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Earl Gaines
"Lovin' Blues: The Starday King Years, 1967-73"
(Westside WESA 802)
by Gordon Baxter
Earl Gaines is currently enjoying a resurgence of interest as part of the Nashville blues/R&B revival. "Lovin Blues..." captures Gaines' time at Starday-King on the Hollywood and DeLuxe labels. It combines the original "Lovin' Blues" compilation with several singles, and five previously unissued tracks. Gaines, a singer in the same class as Bobby Bland, was inspired to take up the blues by B.B. King, Lowell Fulson and Louis Jordan. The songs here feature Gaines fronting a classic R&B line-up, complete with horns and organ, and Johnny Jones (another Nashville stalwart) plays guitar on several tracks. Favorite tracks include "From warm to cool to cold," "Tell me tonight", the stunning "What in the world can I call my own," and the instrumental closer "Finger lickin'." Great stuff.
Westside: www.vci.com
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Heavy Blues Chevy
"Blues N'Jected"
(1999, Mag Records, JCD001)
by Eve Morris
Heavy Blues Chevy is a west Tennessee based band. Mick Dycus recorded, mixed, produced and mastered this record on his bed room floor with analog equipment and with a little help from other band mates from time to time. They have made for themselves quite a name in the Memphis area by their handy habit of playing just about anywhere they are asked and a rockin' good time had by all. The album Blues'N'Jected containing ten energy-packed songs nine of which are original, displays a variety of styles that they weave together. They are capable of pulling off the whole Texas Blues sound without being a Stevie Ray rip-off to swing and Rock-a-Billy. For a good time call Heavy Blues Chevy, that number is: 1800-784-4230.
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Tom Hunter
"Big Thunder"
(Self-produced 1999)
by Michael Evan
Although you can find Tom on a number of recordings, providing excellent keyboard work for other artists, this CD is all his. "Big Thunder," an eleven song, fifty-six minute effort by Tom, and some of the best musicians around, is an excellent example of great blues piano. The four original compositions take you on a journey of sorts, through loneliness, despair, and troubled relationships. The song that grabs you first is "Stop," a story of regaining control, and taking charge of a life gone astray. These four Hunter originals are good blues songs. Rounding out the disc are a number of old favorites, including, "Bad Bad Whiskey," and "Smack Dab In The Middle." Tom put together a good group to take into the studio, Jon Gunvaldson (guitar), Rob Stupka (drums), Gordon Johnson (bass), and Kenni Holmen (sax). Together, they have produced a fine CD. You will also hear echo's of Charles Brown, as Tom has dedicated this CD to the memory of the late piano great, as well as to Tom's own children. A very good CD, highly recommended to blues piano buffs, and to all blues music lovers.
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Luther "Guitar Jr." Johnson
"Live At the Rynborn"
(M. C. Records MC0037)
by Stephen T. Davidson
Luther "Guitar Jr." Johnson, is a stalwart proponent of the West Side style of Chicago blues. An excellent vocalist and fiery guitar player who plays with taste and control, the blues guitarist, songwriter and singer shines as the leader of his band, "The Magic Rockers." If you are a fan of the West Side style of Chicago blues, and/or Luther "Guitar Jr." Johnson and "The Magic Rockers," you’ll like "Live At the Rynborn."
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Syl Johnson
"Talkin' Bout Chicago"
(Delmark Records - DE-729)
by Dave "Doc" Piltz
Syl Johnson's Delmark release is a record that I really liked, although it hasn't received that accolades it should have. If you like Chicago blues and soul, you should enjoy "Talkin' 'Bout Chicago."
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Junior Kimbrough
"Meet Me In the City"
(Fat Possum Records 80333-2)
by Stephen T. Davidson
If you live for the music and want an intimate sitting with the real deal, this is great CD. The mesmeric intensity of the home and live recorded versions are what make "Meet Me In the City" a prize acquisition. Listening to an original play originals is truly a special experience and David "Junior" Kimbrough is most definitely, an original.
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Lamont Cranston
"Tiger In Your Tank"
(CWR8808-2 Cold Wind Records)
by Stephen T. Davidson
Pat Hayes and the various incarnations of Lamont Cranston have been known for blowing the doors off of venues for 30 years and this CD is no exception. A Cranston classic that was originally released in 1988, "Tiger In Your Tank", is a "House Party" that lights a fire under your dancin’ shoes. This is about as energetic a jump/shuffle/boogie/blues CD as your going to get.
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Louisiana Red
"Millennium Blues"
(Earwig CD 4943)
by Stephen T. Davidson
This is a great CD by Louisiana Red. Backed by musicians who share the same roots and understanding of the Mississippi to Chicago style and who’ve obviously bonded with him. He is in his element and it shows. Red digs deep into the blues and gets personal, he flashes back to his Mississippi roots, his slashing slide accentuating the pain in his voice... A total reincarnation of the delta bluesman.
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Jay McShann
"Still Jumpin' the Blues"
(Stony Plain SPCD1254)
by Michael Evan
Put this one in the CD changer, hit play and close your eyes. Take a soothing ride back in time to the 1940's era, Kansas City, Mo., at that time the center of the universe for Jazz and Blues in the historic 14th and Vine St. district. Hootie brings to life the sounds of the Hey Hey Club, and the GEM, a time in which Charlie Parker received his first recording opportunity with the Jay McShann Orchestra. On this disc, the orchestra is reduced to a small group of superb musicians, including Maria Muldaur, and Duke Robillard.
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Mike Morgan & The Crawl
"I Like The Way You Work It"
(Black Top Records CD BT-1154)
by Dave "Doc" Piltz
Texas guitar blues with a great "live in the studio" feel to it. Lee McBee's vocals are the perfect compliment to Morgan's guitar. This is one of the band's favorite recordings and probably one of their best too.
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Big Bill Morganfield
"Rising Son"
(Blind Pig Records -BPCD 5053)
by Dave "Doc" Piltz
"Rising Son" from Big Bill Morganfield, shows that musical talent does run in families (perhaps genetically). Muddy Water's son put together a good debut record that will remind you of Muddy and initiates Big Bill's contributions to the blues.
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Van Morrison
"Back On Top"
(Pointblank)
by Mike Martindale
It seems you either love or hate Van Morrison in all his various incarnations. Whatever, there's no denying that this CD lives up to it's title. The bard's musings and often mumbled vocals may turn some off but even they would have to agree they blend well with the musicians collected for this effort.
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Willie Murphy & the Angel Headed Hipsters
"Hustlin’ Man Blues"
(ATM 1137 Muff Ugga Records)
by Stephen T. Davidson
Willie Murphy and the Angel Headed Hipster’s provide us with fresh, new arrangements that completely renovate some old classics and have a great time doing it. Toss in a couple of originals and a party is had by all. This is evident throughout the CD and is what makes "Hustlin Man Blues" so enjoyable to listen to.
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Charlie Musselwhite
"Continental Drifter"
(Pointblank Records)
by Mike Martindale
Probably my favorite find in '99. Musselwhite's harmonica and vocals, which have delighted listeners for years, take us to Cuba and beyond on this disc which belongs in every blues' lovers collections. A beautiful recording that will be cherished for years.
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Charlie Musselwhite
"Continental Drifter"
(Pointblank Records 47130-2)
by Dave "Doc" Piltz
Charlie decides to experiment with the blues and some other musical forms. The result is an interesting combination of sounds and Musselwhite's ever present harp.
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Anders Osborne
"Living Room"
(Shanachie 5375)
by Gordon Baxter
"Living Room" is an excellent album which showcases Anders Osborne's considerable talents as a multi-instrumentalist and singer/songwriter. Rather than playing straight Blues, Osborne marries together the musical traditions from his home in New Orleans, with elements of funk, roots rock and Delta Blues. Although taking the Blues in new directions, Osborne's style has a cohesiveness which belies the diversity of his influences--Dr. John, the Nevilles, and Lowell George are most evident--and the end result is very enjoyable. Osborne who sings a bit like Steve Miller in places (e.g., "Coast to Coast Blues"), had a hand in writing all but one of the tracks. Best tracks include "Greasy Money", "Jetstream", and the CSNY-like "That's All" although there's positively no turkeys here.
Shanachie Records: www.shanachie.com
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Anders Osborne
"Living Room"
(Shanachie Entertainment)
by Mike Martindale
This New Orleans-based singer/songwriter may be a little too rock for some blues purists but his melding of that genre, along with some funk and delta blues influences, deserves serious consideration. His singing and slide guitar often reminds of the late Lowell George of Little Feat fame. His compositions, musically and lyrically, are fresh and thoughtful.
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Wilson Pickett
"It's Harder Now"
(Bullseye Blues & Jazz - 11661-9826-2A)
by Dave "Doc" Piltz
My choice for best album released this year and proof that Mr. Pickett is still wicked. This recording has all new songs, but the same distinctive and powerful vocal delivery from Wilson Pickett.
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Tony Price
"Low Down And Up"
(Antone's Records 10044)
by Eve Morris
Toni Price may not be full of Christmas spirit but good heart-felt blues is her main focus. Low Down and Up is her fourth release. This Austin based singer plays to a packed house (which holds 200) Every Tuesday at the continental club. After being a part of "Mel and The Party Hats" and living in Nashville since she was five, She decided to give Austin a try. Obviously it’s paid off, there she met the great songwriters she works with to this day. Songwriters are an important role considering she claims writing isn’t in her blood and doesn’t write her own material. The latter doesn’t matter she can sing them, that’s what matters. This album is a very soulfully acoustic set and you can relate to it at any and almost every point.
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Yank Rachell
"Blues Mandolin Man"
(Random Chance Records RCD-1)
by Stephen T. Davidson
Random Chance Records CD reissue of the 1986 Blind Pig Records release of "Blues Mandolin Man" is a wonderful example of the early country bluesman, Yank Rachell, in a modern urban electric blues setting. Although not quite as agile in his 70’s as he was as a young man, Yank still emotes some of the fiery attack and raw power of his early days. This is an impressive recording from a unique bluesman tastefully backed by his band and a classic album well worth adding to your collection.
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Duke Robillard
"New Blues for Modern Man"
(Shanachie 9017)
by Michael Evan
One of my favorites. The "Duke" of the fret masters, has put together one of the finest recordings of this past year. Dukes' rendition of the Charlie Patton classic, "Pony Blues" is worth the price of the CD alone. There is a cover of Bob Dylan's "Love Sick" as well. The remainder of the disc is what has already become vintage Robillard originals like, "Fishnet," and "You're the Only One."
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Don Scott
"Scotty's Blues"
(DJ Records 769)
by Mark Halverson
This release could serve as a rare little treat in any blues fan's stocking. Don "Scotty" Scott is from rural Chatfield, Minnesota (O.K. that's redundant...), thus there is a good deal of "local flavor" here. Plus, there is a pleasing mix of a variety of different styles of blues music. Those who are not familiar with Scotty as a solo artist may recall him from his long (and sporadically still continuing) stint with southern Minnesota's Dust Bowl Blues Band. This release combines acoustic folk/country blues, electric blues and even a couple jazzy cuts. Some cuts find Scotty performing solo, some with a full band including a keyboardist and saxophonist. Five of the cuts were written by Don. The others are for the most part well-known blues standards. Performance wise, Scotty's strong point is his guitar playing. He plays acoustic, electric and National Steel guitars on this release. His talents are particularly evident on those acoustic works which showcase his guitar work (about half the cuts). Three of the tunes are jazzy instrumentals. The remaining tunes are done with varying versions of the full band, generally in a somewhat light, fast paced fashion. There are some particularly tasty sax and well-placed keyboard in addition to the guitar work throughout the "band" cuts. "Scotty's Blues" is available at select area independent record stores or can be ordered directly by sending $16.00 to "Scotty's Blues," PO Box 507, Chatfield, MN 55923. If you order directly, order early. Scotty's on the road a lot.
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Jimi "Prime Time" Smith
"Give Me Wings"
(Atomic Theory Records ATM1422)
by Michael Evan
A definite stuffer for the blues lovers' stocking this Christmas. One of the years best local recordings, a live performance by Jimi "Prime Time" Smith and Band. From their home at Blues Alley in Minneapolis, Jimi, along with Donald "Hye" Pockets Robertson (drums), Mick Massof (bass), and Michael Pendergast (Hammond B3 Organ) deliver a rock solid recording of original material, as well as exquisite covers of, Albert Collins, and Luther Allison. With a little help from their friends, local harmonica guru Tom Burns, and world renown Jazz organist, "Captain" Jack McDuff, you cannot go wrong with this disc. A must for the serious blues collector.
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Little Al Thomas and the Crazy House Band
"South Side Story"
(Cannonball Records CBD29110)
by Mark Halverson
A listen to "South Side Story" reveals why Cannonball recorded Chicago "unknown" Little Al Thomas. A steel worker by day a blues man by night, he has developed into a solid vocalist. Nothing fancy, but pleasing, competent work. He is backed by the Crazy House Band -- a drummer--fronted south side journeyman band Al has performed with regularly since the mid 1980's. The material is done in what can overall be called an up tempo "Chicago Swing" style a bit on the R&B side. The addition of horns on some cuts gives them almost a "big band" sound. This is a good release, and will be appreciated by any blues fan who has not yet "discovered" Little Al. The release should be available at most full-service record stores, but can be ordered from Cannonball records through their WEB site: or by calling (612) 361-6302 if need be.
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Various Artists
"Genuine Mississippi Blues... Plus - The Ace (MS) Blues Masters Vol. 4"
(Westside WESM 579)
by Gordon Baxter
Volume 4 of "Genuine Mississippi Blues..." is a reissue of the album that appeared on Johnny Vincent's Ace label in 1981, with the addition of six extra rare takes. The most recognizable names here are Sam Myers (6 tracks) and Johnny Littlejohn (3). The remaining artists--Bad Smitty (5 tracks), Elmore James Jr. (3) and King Edward (3)--may be less well known, but they reflect the Blues scene in and around Jackson, MS in the late 1970's. The album is historically important in that respect, but the quality of the offerings is equally important. Most of the tracks may be reworkings, but they are arranged to highlight the particular talents of the recording artist. On this evidence there was a lot of good stuff going on in Jackson at that time. Now go get volumes 1-3 and start saving for volume 5!
Westside: www.vci.com
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Various Artists
"The Golden Age of Blue Chicago"
(Blue Chicago BC 5003)
by Stephen T. Davidson
The era of tough, gritty, electric postwar Chicago blues of the 50’s and 60’s recalls independent record labels such as Chess, Checker, Cobra, Vee-Jay, Chief, and Delmark, among others. Eighteen of the artists presented here in "The Golden Age of Blue Chicago" are some of the legendary bluesmen that made these labels famous. This would be a great compilation for the burgeoning Chicago blues lover to begin sampling some of the bluesmen that made the town famous for it's blues.
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Charles Walker
"I'm Available"
(Black Magic 9040)
by Gordon Baxter
"I'm Available" sees singer Charles Walker renewing his acquaintance with Johnny Jones and backing singers The Kinglets forty years after they first recorded together. It's the latest in an ever lengthening line of Nashville blues/R&B rediscovery albums, and features a mixture of uptempo R&B, blues and slow soul burners. Walker simply takes it all in his stride without seeming to break sweat. Best moments are the opening "Homewrecker legs"--best song title of the year?--the singalong "Leavin' this old town," the deep soul of "When I'm Gone." Aided an abetted by Fred James throughout, this is another cracking album to be filed alongside Al Garner, Earl Gaines, and Johnny Jones. Living Blues described this one as "A strong contender for comeback album of the year." 'Nuff said!
Black Magic Records: Fax ++31 (0)78 631 0072 Mail Order
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Arthur Williams with Boo Boo Davis
"Harpin' On it"
(Fedora Records FCD 5013)
by Gordon Baxter
"Harpin' On It" is the debut from 61 year old St. Louis based harp player Williams. It's 11 tracks (6 originals) of harp based Blues, with Williams' playing reflecting elements of SBWII, Little Walter and Jimmy Reed, and some of the powerhouse style of Frank Frost--Williams played the Mississippi jukes with Frost and Sam Carr in the early 1960's. The vocals are shared between Williams and drummer James "Boo Boo" Davis. Stand out tracks are the cracking instrumental title track, "Chitlins and Hot Sauce", Don Robey's "Mother In Law Blues" and the closer "Talkin' Too Much." The overall musical style is Chicago-based, but the delivery is much more no-nonsense Mississippi juke joint, not a million miles from the feel of Frank Frost and Sam Carr's "The Jelly Roll Kings". Top stuff.
Fedora Records: www.jazzdepot.com
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These reviews are copyright © 1999 by the reviewer and Blues On Stage, all rights reserved.
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