CD Review
Rich Harper
"Bottled Up Blues"
Kanawha Records (KST 1115)
by TR Marshall
Review date: January 2000
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1999 KBA Award Winner
Achievement for Blues on the Internet
Presented by the Blues Foundation
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In this follow-up CD to last years "Don't Think Just Play" the Rich Harper Blues Band continues right where they left off; telling stories with blues songs about life, love and having some fun doing it. Of the eleven tracks, on "Bottled Up Blues" ten are originals, the one exception is the traditional, "Mean Old World." As its title suggests guitarist Rich Harper's instrument of choice is the slide guitar and he convincingly demonstrates his ability to wring some amazing sounds from his Strat. Solidly backed on bass by Jon Stenber and drummer Bob Arkwright this trio explores a variety of blues styles on this release. From Harper's picking a Johnson Resophonic on one of my favorites from the disc "Train Song," and his country influenced "Barrelhouse Stomp" and shuffle on "All I Got Belongs To You" a lot of blues ground gets covered in just a few songs. Guest appearances by Mark Moulding (Hammond B3 organ, and piano) on four tracks and background vocals from
Chris Cooke on two selections offer additional texture and feeling. I like the uncomplicated sound of this three piece, nothing seems to be missing or added unnecessarily. From Son House, Robert Johnson and Elmore James to Sonny Landreth, Ry Cooder, Bonnie Raitt, and J.B. Hutto, there is no shortage of talented players and Rich Harper should be added to the list of accomplished practitioners.
With each listening to "Bottled Up Blues" I appreciate the group's musicianship and would recommend adding this to any collection. By visiting www.richharper.com you can sample song selections from both this disc as well as their first release "Don't Think Just Play."
This review is copyright © 2000 by TR Marshall, and Blues On Stage, all rights reserved.
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