I thought it was excellent to have the live opportunity to hear the songs I reviewed from Knight's CD. As well as have the chance to absorb more than his voice and guitar techniques. He was pure mind, body, and soul on stage, and his song, " Just Ride The Train," still remains to be one of my favorites. Its lyrics depict the insane nature of a woman, and has a provocative melody which creeps inside, making me crave to hear the song again. I have had to replay it several times on my CD player since his performance. It's one of those songs, which remains in my mind for hours after I've heard it. Not only did Lonnie play original ballads from his CD; he also played many others which were composed by some of the greatest blues artists in history. Musicians such as Luther Allison and his song, "Move From The Hood, " Stevie Ray Vaugn's," Pride and Joy," BB King's early melody," Bad Luck Soul, " as well as play outside of the traditional perimeters of the blues realm with the hit song, "Sledgehammer." Even though the Cabooze had most of the Twin Cities blues fans at Lang's performance, Knight still had the bar hopping with his loyal crowd. When Carolyn wasn't working the lights and sound, she had her shoes kicked off and her hands pouncing on the keyboards like a revved cat. When I witnessed the crown it appeared that everyone there was having a great time. Even Billy Marolt, a talented musician from Biwabik, Minnesota, jammed with the band on his savory, soul filled sax. Billy's cool, sophisticated notes had the ability to bring my body temperature down a few more degrees.

Not only is Lonnie a talented musician/songwriter, he has also been referred to as a, "Good Knight," by Joe Tougas, Mankato Free Press, March 23, 2000. His mannerism definitely proves this statement to be true. I was very impressed with Lonnie's off stage presence because he took the time to speak with me in between sets. I couldn't have met a nicer, more down to earth musician. When we had the chance to talk, I discovered that Lonnie has been playing guitar since the age of twelve, and according to his statements, neither of his parents is musically inclined. Yet, Lonnie knew even at his young age, that the power of music was in his blood and that he had a strong desire to pursue his musical career. He was also influenced to play the blues by the second wave of the British music invasion. His main persuasions were the Yard Birds and Animals. He was as well an an ex - City Mouse band member and Hoopsnake. Knight played with the Hoopsnakes during their last year together. He began with them in October 1994 and remained with the group until October of 1995. Knight is also a diverse artist with talents ranging in the musical realms of country music, jingles, folk, rock n'roll, blues, and instrumentals. And he is also in the process of composing and recording his second CD. But his talents don't stop there. When he isn't playing, he's building web sites, or designing his computer graphic creations. Lonnie Knight is definitely a multi - talented, all around Renaissance man.

When the night was over I walked out of Blues West with a smile and chill from the energy. By the time we were on the road headed home, I felt the need for a sweater. Lonnie Knight's music cooled me right to the soul. Thanks Lonnie and the Band for a great night! If you want to check out a fine blues musician, his schedule, and how to purchase his CD, "Big Shoe's," check out Lonnie Knight's web site at www. lonnieknight.com. Or visit http:///www.twofishstudios.com/buycds.html. Lonnie also jams at Blues West every Sunday night if you want to catch his music live.

This review is copyright © 2000 by Mia Jennings, and Blues On Stage, all rights reserved. Copy, duplication or download prohibited without written permission. For permission to use this review please send an E-mail to Ray Stiles.