Eller Soul Records artist: Mike Henderson Band - If You Think It's Hot Here... - New Release Review

I just received the newest release, If You Think It's Hot Here..., from The Mike Henderson Band and it's quite good! Opening with I Wanna Know Why, a creeping blues number with some great Fender guitar tones. Michael Rhodes lays down a real serious bass lead and Henderson has a voice that is just right for this type of blues rock music. Kevin McKendree really hammers the piano and Henderson gets down serious with some tasty blues riffs making this a great opener. Send You Back To Georgia is a great rock and roller with a serious rocking beat (Pat O'Connor - drums) and McKendree really takes the opportunity to bring this baby to it's knees. Henderson whips out the slide and rides the lower fretboard with some deep grinding grooves. Excellent! On shuffle track, Houndog Taylor's It's Alright is a great 12 bar number with a serious lope. McKendree takes the first leg and Henderson the second on slide for a super romp in blues land. Title R&B style track, If You Think It's Hot Here, has a taste of Soul Serenade by McKendree on piano with a a nice B3 wrth on gospel. Chris and Morgane Stapleton add the cool vocal backing. Henderson takes a nice slide solo on the track and McKendree reall shines as well. Very nice. One of my picks for this release is Weepin' And Moanin'. With a smooth slower pace and "just right" key accents against Henderson's guitar riffs, this track is hot! Muddy Water's Mean Red Spider gets a funky under beat with a great pace set by O'Connor. Another tasty piano solo by McKendree and well paced phrasing by Henderson both vocally and on guitar makes this track shine. On Robert Johnson's If I Had Possession opens with Henderson on acoustic slide laying down some of the hottest riffs on the release. Slowly building the track gains a New Orleans strut with the aide or McKendree on piano and snappy drumming by O'Connor. Henderson steps back uyp but on electric guitar this time leading the track to a close. Very cool! Sonny Boy Williamson's Unseen Eye has a real nice bass line by Michael Rhodes and Henderson lays out some of the blusiest riffs on the release. I really like this track. The extended guitar work on this track really hits it! Blind Lemon Jefferson's Matchbox gets a Carl Perkins' or Ronnie Hawkins' feel but with Jerry Lee Lewis spin and Chuck Berry guitar riffs. Very cool! Melvin Jackson's Gamblin' Blues has a serious Texas feel. I particularly like Henderson's vocals on this track and O'Connor and Rhodes really drive the bottom. McKendree takes a cool barrelhouse piano solo and Henderson steps up with a fat solo of his own. Hot track! Wrapping the release is Rock House Blues, a slow, harp led blues (Henderson) with McKendree on piano. This is a really nice conclusion to a particularly cool release!

  If you support live Blues acts, up and coming Blues talents and want to learn more about Blues news and Fathers of the Blues, Like ---Bman’s Blues Report--- Facebook Page! I’m looking for great talent and trying to grow the audience for your favorites band! -  ”LIKE”

Here's a taste of Henderson if you don't know his work:

Blind Pig Records artist:Smokin' Joe Kubek & Bnois King - Fat Man's Shine Parlor - New release Review

I just received the newest release (February 3, 2015), Fat Man's Shine Parlor by Smokin' Joe Kubek & Bnois King. This reunion release with Blind Pig is long overdue and really grooves. Opening with boogie track, Got My Heart Broken, King and Kubek keep it simple (like Hooker intended) with only Shiela Klinefelter on bass, Eric Smith on drums and Kim La Fleur on guitar taking it above a basic two man boogie. Very cool. On Cornbread, a quick paced boogie, King leads the way on vocal and Kubek rips some really tasty riffs trading with King and LaFleur. Diamond Eyes slows things down a bit to a basic blues rock ballad with a nice guitar bridge. Crash and Burn has a cool early rock beat and structure. Clean simple guitar solos and drum riffs carry this track. River Of Whiskey is built over a "Crossroads" like riff and each man steps up with his own guitar riff. Don't Want To Be Alone has an R&B sway and King always shows his best vocal work on tracks like this. Kubek lays out a real nice bluesy guitar solo making this one of the best tracks on the release. On Brown Bomba Mojo, Klinefelter and Smith lay down the basic riff giving King and Kubeck free space to cut it loose. With a bit of twin guitar lead this track hits solid. How Much also has a number of the characteristics of early rock music with hints of R&B. I particularly like the drum breaks which give the track some extra flair. Hot flashy guitar riffs spice up the track just right. One Girl By My Side is a blues rocker with just a taste of country. Cool guitar effects give it extra texture and soaring guitar solos mixed with King's solid vocals make this a track to hear. A standout track, Lone Star Lap Dance is a real cool shuffle with guitar riffs all around. Excellent! Done Got Caught gets down and dirty with a solid, slow blues. King shines on vocal and extended guitar solos make this a definite must hear. Returning to the basic rock beat for the closer, Headed For Ruin, King sets the stage and Kubek closes with tasty guitar riffs. Cool closer for a cool release.

  If you support live Blues acts, up and coming Blues talents and want to learn more about Blues news and Fathers of the Blues, Like ---Bman’s Blues Report--- Facebook Page! I’m looking for great talent and trying to grow the audience for your favorites band! -  ”LIKE”

 

Don't Be A Wallflower! Hit The DANCE! Floor With Sol Driven Train - CD Is Out On March 17

Don’t Be A Wallflower!

Hit The DANCE! Floor With Sol Driven Train

New CD Is Out On March 17

"With the album DANCE! we have put on our boogie shoes.  These songs are intended to lift spirits and spread smiles.  Push back the furniture, crank up the volume, and move your body to the beat!" - SDT

Atlanta, GA – On March 17, Sol Driven Train will release their 12th album, DANCE! on their own label, Sol Driven Train Records. This tasty collection of songs was produced by the band and Jeff Hodges at Charleston Sound studios. Hailing from the Southern port town of Charleston, SC, the band prides itself as being charmingly eclectic. As the New Year opens up, the Train keeps rolling with the release of DANCE!, a hectic touring schedule across the US and Caribbean, and a spot on the Atomic Music Group Showcase at The SXSW Festival on March 20th in Austin, TX.

The band celebrates a milestone this year for it’s been 15 years since SDT was birthed. They have released 11 independent albums, including two children’s, a live DVD, and an EP, all driven by their DIY ethos. They have asked fans for funding, and those loyal Train riders have answered back, once with their 2012 release Underdog and now with this year’s DANCE!. They also love to give back to their community with many charitable performances supporting local educational and environmental initiatives.

Over the years of relentless touring, Sol Driven Train has played shows with some of their musical heroes, like Bruce Hornsby, the late great Levon Helm, and Tab Benoit. These opening slots have impressed the headliners so much they were invited back on several extended tours.  During these shows, new fans have been won over by this infectious live band and the joy that they transmit from stage.

Who is Sol Driven Train and why are they always smiling?

SDT consists of Ward Buckheister on guitar, trombone, and vocals; Russell Clarke on saxophones and vocals; Matt Thompson on bass and vocals; Ross Bogan on keyboards and vocals; Wes Powers on drums; Joel Timmons on guitar and vocals. The smiling part comes from the sheer joy of doing what they love and making everyone around them happy. There is a palpable sense of brotherhood, mutual support and a creative independence that oozes into the crowds.

DANCE! is one of those albums that will make everyone jump for joy. Stylistically it bounces from reggae to jazz, from folk rock to jam band styles, and the band navigates the winding road with a sonic playfulness. Their vocal melodies and harmonies recall the genius of Brian Wilson and The Beach Boys, while their musicianship has a strong resemblance to the bands of James Brown and Paul Simon.  While the album offers fun beats and witty lyrics, it also gives some insight into the band members' personal lives.

Old-school fans of the band will enjoy Joel’s contributions like “Coconut Tree” and “Greyhound Station,” written on a sailboat during an epic around-the-world trip in 2003-2004.  “Gravity” and “Everest” are songs of Ward’s that were written during the band’s 2008 Lighthouse sessions and while these songs weren’t included in that album, they are incredibly personal. Multi-instrumentalist Ward has celebrated five years of sobriety, and his clarity combined with the musical maturity of the current lineup has given new life to these live show standards.  “Crazy Dancer,” “Lobstamandaughta,” and “Big Easy Walk” are danceable tunes reflecting Joel’s gratitude to the people and places that they have visited over the course of 15 years.  The album closes with a stripped down a Capella number, “Altitude,” where all six members sing and play body percussion in a doo-wop style love song. You can hear the warm breeze in their harmonizing voices.

The front cover gives it all away with Russell Clarke looking like John Travolta in Saturday Night Fever in that iconic pose. Everybody knows what that means. Will you dance the mashed potato? The rumba? The tango? Or just do the monkey?

The band’s touring schedule is being handled by booking agent Logan Bosemer of Atomic Music Group in Nashville, TN. The band’s radio campaign is being promoted by Brad Paul of Brad Paul Media located outside of Boston, MA. SDT is active on the following social media platforms – Facebook, Twitter, YouTube and Instagram and you can access them and more by going to their website: www.soldriventrain.com

INTINERARY

2/5                        Isis Music Hall                                  Asheville, NC

2/6                        Gottrocks                                          Greenville, SC

2/7                        New Brookland Tavern                Columbia, SC

2/12                     Local 506                                          Chapel Hill, SC

2/13                     Ziggy’s                                                Winston-Salem, NC

2/14                     Holston River Brewing Co.                Bristol, TN
2/15                     The Purple Fiddle                            Thomas, WV

2/16                     Hill Country Live                              Washington, DC

3/12                     Smith’s Olde Bar                             Atlanta, GA

Nola Blue artist: Benny Turner - Journey - New Release Review

I just received the newest release, Journey, from Benny Turner and it has a fine groove. Opening with Breakin' News, a shuffle track with a nice Taj Mahal kind of feel and gospel like backing vocals, it's a great track. Marc Stone on steel guitar, Keiko Komaki on piano and horn work by Jason Mingledorff (sax) and Barney Floyd (trumpet) set this track off. Funky blues Don't You Ride My Mule has a really cool feel with not only nice vocals from Turner but a solid key work from Josh Paxton, super horn work from Mingledorff and Mark Leuron on trumpet and Harp work from Bruce "Sunpie" Barnes. Very nice! R&B ballad How I Wish has a soft sway and cool rhythm from Marc Stone on guitar. Deanna Bernard and Ellen Smith add warm backing vocals and Mingledorff and Floyd cool horn backing. Another R&B style blues track, I Wanna Make It Right, has just a super groove. Bernard and Smith again adding just the right vocal backing and Komaki adding some really tight keyboard. My Mother's Blues has a bit more of a picking blues feel with Turner on guitar and kazoo. Tom Worrell ecohes Turners riff on piano for a really clever instrumental. I Wanna Give It to You Baby is a solid 12 bar blues number featuring a harp intro by Patrick Williams and additional harp work from Barnes. Jeffrey "Jellybean" Alexander doesn't do anything flashy but his steady beat adds significantly to the overall track. Worn Out Woman has a real nice R&B bass groove by Turner to carry his super vocals. Derwin Big D Perkins adds a nice guitar riff throughout this track cushioned nicely by Komaki on keys. Possibly my favorite track on the release. My Uncle's Blues (Fannie Mae) has a straight up 12 bar blues rhythm featuring Turner on guitar and lead vocal. Tom Worrell and Komaki share keyboard responsibilities and Williams does a real nice job on harp. A slower blues, Voodoo Lady has a dark bass lead complimented by Marc Stone on guitar. Turner paces himself on vocal cushioned by Komaki on piano and organ. Wrapping the release is What's Wrong with the World Today which has a real taste of New Orleans. I really love the vocal harmonies of Bernard, Smith and Barnes. A high stepping rhythm that develops between Turner, Komaki and Alexander is really cool. Very nice conclusion to a very enjoyable release.  

If you support live Blues acts, up and coming Blues talents and want to learn more about Blues news and Fathers of the Blues, Like ---Bman’s Blues Report--- Facebook Page! I’m looking for great talent and trying to grow the audience for your favorites band! -  ”LIKE”

 

Connor Ray Music Label Announces CEO

Photo: John Abbey, Trudy Lynn

Connor Ray Music Label Announces New CEO Music industry veteran John Abbey takes the helm January 2015 Houston, Texas based Connor Ray Music announced today that John Abbey will assume control of the day to day operations as General Manager and CEO. Connor Ray Music was originally founded in 1995. Steve Krase, Founder and President of Connor Ray Music, had this to say about the announcement,  “John Abbey is one of the most well-known personalities in this business and brings a wealth of knowledge and leadership to the company. We are excited about the future of Connor Ray Music with John at the helm!” John Abbey commented, "I found everyone within Connor Ray and those around Connor Ray to be on the same page. Everyone wants to accomplish the same goals and the unity is amazing.  We will be keeping our eyes open for artists that are of the same mind set. Those that join the Connor Ray family can expect a top notch team to be behind them.  This is truly an exciting time for all of us."   In 2014 Connor Ray Music releases rose to the number 1 and number 3 spots on Billboard's Blues Chart.  Trudy Lynn's “Royal Oaks Blues Cafe'” reached the coveted number 1 spot and Steve Krase's current release “Buckle Up” reached number 3 and is currently moving up on the Americana charts with crossover hits such as "Jolene".  John Abbey has a long track record in the music industry dating back to the 1960’s when he founded the UK based “Blues and Soul” magazine in 1966. He later went on to work for “Duke Records” and founded the “Action”, “Mojo” and “Contempo” record labels before founding the famed Ichiban Records in 1985 where he helped develop the career of Connor Ray artist Trudy Lynn and many others.   Connor Ray Music Label - www.connorraymusic.com For John Abbey, Steve Krase, or Trudy Lynn interviews contact: John in Houston PR 832-916-7716  or  john@johninhoustonpr.com

Trudy Lynn's Royal Oaks Blues Cafe' is in international distribution and available almost everywhere Returning recently from the Lucerne Blues Festival Steve Krase's hot new release had moved to number 3 on Billboard's Blues Chart

Copyright © 2015 John in Houston PR LLC, All rights reserved. All trademarks, symbols, photographs property of their respective owners. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4so8I1vh0E0&sns=em

Bluesman Bernard Allison Is "In the Mix" on First New Studio Album in Six Years, Coming March 17 on Jazzhaus Records

Bluesman Bernard Allison Is In the Mix on First New Studio Album in Six Years, Coming March 17 on Jazzhaus Records

FREIBURG, GERMANY – Blues guitarist and singer Bernard Allison will release his first new studio album in six years, In the Mix, on March 17 from the Germany-based label, Jazzhaus Records. Produced and arranged by Bernard Allison, In the Mix features 10 tracks, including five originals, as well as covers of two songs from his legendary father, Luther Allison (“Move from the Hood” and “Moving On Up”), plus tunes from Colin James (“Five Long Years”), Freddie King (“I’d Rather Be Blind”) and Tyrone Davis (“I Had It All the Time”).

Although firmly rooted in the blues, the music on In the Mix shows Bernard’s myriad of influences, including soul, rock and R&B. Allison says about the recording sessions: “I was very excited to record with my reformed group. We went into this recording with the mindset to not make a recording flooded with screaming guitars. I just wanted to share my arrangement and songwriting skills, as well as play some tracks I‘ve been holding onto for years.With the help of my bandmates as well as my mom Fannie Mae Allison, I can say I‘m very proud of the outcome of In the Mix, which  reminds me a bit of the old Memphis soul sound with a touch of Hendrix's Band of Gypsys group."

Born in Chicago as the youngest of nine children of iconic bluesman Luther Allison (who bought his son his first guitar), Bernard got the playing bug at an early age when his father began schooling the youngster in the roots of black music and the art of the electric guitar.

“I didn’t start to play until I was maybe 10 years of age,” Allison remembers. “I started by picking up the guitar and listening to my father’s records.” He also absorbed the music of his dad’s influences, including Magic Sam, Otis Rush, T-Bone Walker, Lightnin’ Hopkins and B.B. King, as well as the next generation of stars: Jimi Hendrix, Stevie Ray Vaughan and Johnny Winter.

Bernard made his first appearance on record at 13 and by age 18 had joined his father onstage for shows such as the Chicago Blues Festival. One week after graduating high school, he got the call from the great Koko Taylor, who asked Bernard to be the lead guitar player in her band. He played with Koko Taylor’s Blues Machine for three years, getting a wonderful education in how to behave both on and off the stage, and also backing the great Willie Dixon.

The 1980s brought contemporary influences and friendships with Johnny Winter and Stevie Ray Vaughan, and in 1990, Bernard Allison recorded his first solo album. Over the next 20 years, he recorded numerous studio and live albums, touring endlessly with his own band. When Luther Allison passed in 1997, son Bernard picked up the blues torch, but carried it with his own light, assuming the challenge of helping to keep the blues alive with his own brand of music that fused blues with rock, soul and other influences to carry it into the next millennium.

“The blues is my roots,” states Allison. “Regardless of how far outside of the blues I reach for tones, I can’t ever leave the blues. Whenever I play, all those guitar parts are Luther Allison coming through me. My dad was the same way; he wasn’t all blues. He loved Otis Redding and Chuck Berry. I’m just showing where my influences come from, and respecting the people who got me to this point.”

For more information, visit www.bernardallison.com and www.jazzhausrecords.com.

New Release: Igor Prado Band

Igor Prado Band - Way Down South Release Date: February 17, 2015

VizzTone Label Group artist: Brandon Santini - Live and Extended - New Release Review

I just received the newest release (1/27/15), Live and Extended presented by Festival D'ete' De Quebec, by Brandon Santini. Opening with a funky version of Muddy Waters' One More Mile, Santini is cooking right out of the box on lead vocal and hot smokin' harp work. Great opener! Nick Hern on bass and Timo Arthur on guitar set a solid boogie rhythm nailed down by Chad Wirl on drums on This Time Another Year and Santini uses his solid blues voice and great harp phrasing to captivate the crowd. On Sonny Boy Williamson track, Elevate Me Mama, Santini really gets in the slow groove. This track is in excess of 6 minutes and Santini doesn't waste a note. Hot! On groove blues, Evil Woman, it's Hern and Arthur that set the pace and Arthur takes it for a nice ride with some flashy riffs of his own. The band drops back to nothing but drum and Santini takes a rid of his own. Very cool! Have A Good Time has a sassy 60's surf kind of sound rolled into a blues track. Arthur keeps it simple with rockabilly style riffs and Wirl keeps the groove. Help Me With The Blues is a solid flame thrower right out of the chute. Arthur is again right on the top with rock n roll guitar riffs and Wirl and Hern ride tight. Santini steps up with a hot hot harp solo. Excellent! Slim Harpo track, Got Love If You Want It, has a crisp early rock/blues feel. Santini really rocks the joint joined by Arthur on a screaming guitar solo. On No Matter What I Do, a cool Chicago style blues, Santini's vocal phrasing sets the bar and in call and response trades with Arthur on guitar riffs. Stepping up and unleashing a masterful harp solo is what this is all about. On shuffle track, What You Doing To Me, dials down the volume a bit and belts out the blues. In contrast his harp phrasing and easy going solo by Arthur gives this track a calming feel. Up next is Frank Frost's My Back Scratcher with a cool bass lead. Santini and Arthur each take very cool extended solos on this track making it one of my favorites on the release. Hot number I Wanna Boogie With You is so hot it's on fire. There are flames coming off of the band. (Stilladog will be whistling this one and blowing someone's ears out). Excellent! Wrapping the release is Come On Everybody, a traditional Chicago style blues. Santini's vocal styling really deserves more notoriety but it is always overshadowed by his harp work. This man can really do it all. With a BB King like swing, Santini belts out the blues bringing the show to a close. This is an excellent recording and a great representation of Santini's work.  

If you support live Blues acts, up and coming Blues talents and want to learn more about Blues news and Fathers of the Blues, Like ---Bman’s Blues Report--- Facebook Page! I’m looking for great talent and trying to grow the audience for your favorites band! -  ”LIKE”

 

QUEBEC BLUES ARTISTS SWEEP MAPLE BLUES AWARDS

QUEBEC BLUES ARTISTS SWEEP MAPLE BLUES AWARDS

Montreal's Steve Hill Tops Tally With Four Wins

January 19, 2015 (Toronto) - Blue Monday, thought to be the most depressing day of the year, was anything but last night Toronto’s Koerner Hall, as internationally renowned Canadian Blues Artists from coast-to-coast were honoured by their peers at the 18^th Annual Maple Blues Awards gala.

Montreal’s one-man band, Steve Hill took home all of the awards he was nominated for including Entertainer of the Year, Electric Act of the Year, Recording of the Year for Solo Recordings Vol. 2, and Guitar Player of the Year. Angel Forrest won two awards including Female Vocalist of the Year and Songwriter of the Year. Also representing the thriving Quebec blues scene were Nanette Workman who won the Blues with a Feeling Lifetime Achievement Award and Greg Morency of the Paul DesLauriers Band who won Bassist of the Year. From Montreal, Guy Belanger won Harmonica Player of the Year, sharing it with Vancouver’s Harpdog Brown in the first ever Maple Blues Awards tie.

Vancouver’s Brandon Isaak won the Acoustic Act of the Year award with David Vest taking home the award for Piano/Keyboard Player of the Year. The New Artist or Group of the Year award was presented to Ottawa’s Wicked Grin. Edmonton Folk Festival producer Terry Wickham joined Stony Plain Records president Holger Petersen to present the Blues Booster of the Year Award to Edmonton’s Peter North, who was recognized for his dedication to promoting the blues as a broadcaster, talent buyer and festival Artistic Director.

An additional award was handed out last night as the winners of the first ever Cobalt Prize for Contemporary Blues Composition were announced.  The creator and benefactor of the award, musician Paul Reddick, presented Digging Roots the grand prize for their song “Hwy 17”, with Rob Lutes and Samantha Martin announced as runners up.

Hosted by renowned musician and broadcaster, Toronto’s own Danny Marks, the Maple Blues Awards included outstanding performances from Maple Blues Award nominees past and present, including the evening’s big winners Steve Hill and Angel Forrest, Joel Johnson,  Downchild, Harpdog Brown and Brandon Isaak, all backed by The Maple Blues Band.

Winners of the 18th Annual Maple Blues Awards

 

 

ENTERTAINER OF THE YEAR

Steve Hill

 

ELECTRIC ACT OF THE YEAR

Steve Hill

ACOUSTIC ACT OF THE YEAR

Brandon Isaak

MALE VOCALIST OF THE YEAR

Matt Andersen

FEMALE VOCALIST OF THE YEAR

Angel Forrest

NEW ARTIST OR GROUP OF THE YEAR
Wicked Grin

RECORDING OF THE YEAR
Steve Hill Solo Recordings Vol. 2 No Label Records; Producer: Steve Hill

BLUES WITH A FEELING AWARD (Lifetime Achievement)
Nanette Workman

BB KING INTERNATIONAL ARTIST OF THE YEAR

Johnny Winter

GUITAR PLAYER OF THE YEAR

Steve Hill

 

HARMONICA PLAYER OF THE YEAR

Tied: Guy Belanger and Harpdog Brown

PIANO/KEYBOARD PLAYER OF THE YEAR

David Vest

HORN PLAYER OF THE YEAR

Jon Wong

DRUMMER OF THE YEAR

Tom Bona

BASSIST OF THE YEAR
Greg Morency

SONGWRITER OF THE YEAR

Angel Forrest

BLUES BOOSTER OF THE YEAR
Peter North

Bloodshot Records artist: Murder By Death - Big Dark Love - New Release Review

I just received the newest release (February 3, 2015), Big Dark Love, by Murder By Death. This is not a blues release but adventurous and well written. Opening with I Shot An Arrow, Adam Turla on lead vocal, Matt Armstrong on bass, Sarah Balliet on cello, Dagan Thogerson on drums and David Fountain on piano set quite a stage. A cool but odd melody with Frank Black like characteristics features a solid anchor in Balliet and Fountain that is quite appealing. Strange Eyes has a driving pop beat and atmospheric backing. Title track, Big Dark Love is a really nice ballad with a haunting guitar riffs over a really solid melody and warm cello bottom. Very cool! Dream In Red has more of a club feel but with dark classical overtones. Solitary One has some of the nicest vocal harmonies with Fountain. The most air friendly track on the release, this is a track that is certain to collect followers. Send Me Home is a solid rocker with cool guitar reverb. A pinch of country gives the track a cool flavor. Last Thing, although floating a bed of synth, has banjo, violin and a country western beat. This has a modern feel not unlike another of my favorites bands in this genre, Camper Van Beethoven. Natural Pearl continues with the western flavor but this time with a light 2 step rhythm. A drum shuffle leads the way and vocal duets between Foutain and Turla with the latter adding some solid guitar riffs. Very cool track. It Will Never Die sets an easy folk track with a light poppy feel, balancing cello with mandolin. Breaking into one of the heaviest jams on the release with a wall of sound it is definitely on the the releases milestones. Wrapping the release is Hunted, seems quite a simple folk track until Turla steps up with his fat reverb filled western style guitar riffs. This is a cool track to complete an unusual and interesting release.  

If you support live Blues acts, up and coming Blues talents and want to learn more about Blues news and Fathers of the Blues, Like ---Bman’s Blues Report--- Facebook Page! I’m looking for great talent and trying to grow the audience for your favorites band! -  ”LIKE”
 

Victor Wainwright Signs With Blind Pig!

BLIND PIG SIGNS VICTOR WAINWRIGHT!New WildRoots Release Due Out In May

Blind Pig Records has announced the signing of Victor Wainwright, recognized as one of the most dynamic and exciting keyboard performers on the roots music scene. Following the signing, Victor said, "After putting a tremendous amount of time, effort and passion into this project, we’re extremely proud of the final recording. I’m excited that we are teaming up with renowned Roots and Blues label Blind Pig Records, to deliver what we feel is our best album yet!” 

Victor Wainwright & Stephen Dees at the big signing

The first release under the pact from Victor Wainwright and the WildRoots, entitled Boom Town, is scheduled to be released in late May. The CD was recorded in Edgewater, Florida and produced by Stephen Dees, who wrote much of the material on the album and is also the WildRoots bassist.  Dees is a highly respected session player whose credits include playing with Hall and Oates, Pat Travers, and Todd Rundgren.
Said Victor, "We've always prided ourselves on excellent songwriting, musicianship and production, but on "Boom Town" we've also captured the energy and edge of our live shows. Although the concept of sin and salvation has been done before, this is our own personal statement, a story of Southern life, faith, redemption, and the challenges that we all face. The unique and edgy sound fits the purpose and storytelling to a T and lifts the whole record up to another level."

Victor’s star is definitely on the rise, having won the coveted Blues Music Award as “Pinetop Perkins Piano Player of the Year” in both 2013 and 2014, as well as anchoring the critically acclaimed Dixie supergroup, Southern Hospitality, whose “Easy Livin’” release made the Top 10 on the Billboard blues chart.

He is known for his high-octane boogie piano, big soul sounds, powerhouse blues, roots rock 'n' roll, and a voice that recalls Dr. John and Leon Russell. He's a raucous high-octane dynamic performer and a crowd pleaser with soul to spare.

WildRoots celebrate signing - l to r: Victor Wainwright, Nick Black (guitar), Patricia Ann Dees (sax, vocals), Stephen Dees, and Billy Dean (drums)

THE YOUNG PRINCE OF BLUES - THEO HUFF

Chicago’s Southern Blues and R&B singer, Theo Huff was raised by his Mississippi mother and grandmother. Both women gave him high principles and values that he holds today. At an early age his mother encourage him to sing at church. Theo Huff at an early age had the pleasure to perform on the same stage with the likes of Koko Taylor, Bobby Rush, Harold Melvin,s Blue notes, Gene Chandler, Willie Clayton, Denise Lasalle, Albertina Walker, Garland Green, Darius Brook, and Ms. Millie Jackson. When he became a member of the Black Ensemble Theater, musical director, Jimmy Tillman took Huff under his wing. This experience enhanced his energetic personality in showing strong emotions that captivate his audience. He only recently begun to hone a proper nightclub act. He received nominations for most promising Actor, and best featured Actor for “That Sensuous Seductive. His blend of traditional and the contemporary is the cause of his success performance at The Liri Blues Festival in Italy and nominate for the best of Chicago 2009 music – Best Blues Act. Blues Festival in Italy and nominate for the best of Chicago 2009 music – Best Blues Act.

David Pannozzo - A Portrait Of Jimi Hendrix - New Release Review

I just received the newest release, A Portrait of Jimi Hendrix, from David Pannozzo and it's really hot! Pannozzo, a superb guitar player guitar player from Italy has come up with a new set of material, Jimi played David style and it cooks. Opening with You Got Me Floating, Pannozzo's guitar has a lot of the snarl of Jimi as he captures the spirit of the man himself with Lello Somma on bass and younger brother, Simone Pannozzo on drums. During his guitar bridge he shows his European influence with more of a jazz fusion solo. Very Nice! Have You Ever Been (To Electric Ladyland) even finds Pannozzo with a falsetto voice and light airy guitar riffs. On the bridge on this track, Pannozzo keeps it a bit more straight up but adds in a bit of chorded funk. I really like Simone's Billy Cobham like drum work on this track. Really sweet! If 6 was 9 keeps a lot of the esoteric feel that Hendrix started but with a newer updated more bluesy twist. Some of the guitar sounds actually step into Jeff Beck territory and that is rare air. I really like it! Hendrix's most famous blues track, Red House is up next and it takes a little more traditional form. With a much more Robin Ford like approach, Pannozzo shows that he is not only a world class guitar player but also an super vocalist. This track not only has a lot of sting but flare with an educated jazz execution. Excellent! On quiet ballad May This Be Love, the track is executed with all of the finesse of a Marvin Gaye track with light accompaniment. Freedom kicks it into high with a strong bass line from Somma and Simone on drums. Pannozzo really gives the fretboard a workout on this track throwing his aggressive attack into it. Again Simone really captures the spirit of the original track giving this track extra bite. Very nice! Up next is one of my favorite Hendrix tracks, Little Wing. The vocals are handled a bit more melodically, but Pannozzo does a really nice job of putting his own spin on this classic. From the most delicate attack to the most ferocious ripper, this track is really tops! Wrapping the release is Hoochie Coochie Man with a cool funky jazz walk. Somma lays down a great bass line and David reinforces the beat with crisp riffs. This track really opens up with some fresh blues jazz guitar fusion work and Simone really shows he knows his way around the kit. This is a really exceptional release and one that I think all but the blues purists will enjoy!

https://loudr.fm/release/a-portrait-of-jimi-hendrix/EznqB

 www.davidepannozzo.com

  If you support live Blues acts, up and coming Blues talents and want to learn more about Blues news and Fathers of the Blues, Like ---Bman’s Blues Report--- Facebook Page! I’m looking for great talent and trying to grow the audience for your favorites band! -  ”LIKE”
 

Frank Viele - Fall Your Way - New Release Review

I just received the most recent release (March 31, 2015), Fall Your Way, from Frank Viele and it's nicely done. Opening with Broken Love Song, a poppy rocker with a nice melody and featuring some thick guitar work from Joe Bonamassa Viele is on his way. Next up is funky, Kalifornia, featuring with a light John Mayer feel but with cool horn punctuation. Viele has a direct voice which gives these tracks a nice edge to start with, blended with raspy sax and pointed drums this is hot stuff. How Dare You Say You're Sorry is a classic ballad with a hot guitar riff and a cool melody. Alexa has a nice bass box rhythm and crisp backing vocals. A sweet track with a light feel, this is another in a full release of well written tracks. Easy Money actually has a mild Michael Jackson feel with a straight rhythm and nicely blended vocals. Light jazzy (Steeley Dan like) guitar work and a nice sax solo sets this track apart. When You Gonna Come Home is a really clean acoustic track with a light jazz backing. Tonight I Must leave Your Arms has a familiar feel with a catchy melody and an almost Don Henley feel... sweet and simple. Monsters In The Hall has an easy flowing pace over a straight 4/4 beat. Someday I'm Gonna Make You Mine has a cool funky beat but light and jazzy feel. I particularly like the soprano sax work under the strong vocals by Viele. You Don't Have To Go steps up the pace a bit with a fast driving beat and an almost Spanish guitar rhythm. Very cool. Kick Up Your Heels has a funky R&B feel but maintains it's pop polish and horn retort. A compressed guitar solo on this track is particularly effective. Clever and spanky. You're Gonna Make Me Lonesome When You Go is a light and easy rocker and Viele shows he really needs very little but his own vocal to make good music. Wrapping the release is I Just Don't Know with simple keys and guitar under Viele's rich melody. No...this isn't a blues release but a well thought out pop vocal release. It's well written and performed.  

If you support live Blues acts, up and coming Blues talents and want to learn more about Blues news and Fathers of the Blues, Like ---Bman’s Blues Report--- Facebook Page! I’m looking for great talent and trying to grow the audience for your favorites band! -  ”LIKE”

 

http://frankvielemusic.com

Warner Music Canada Signs Canadian Blues-Rock Sensation Philip Sayce

“One of rock’s best-kept secrets.” London Daily Star, UK

Tuesday, January 6, 2015 – For immediate release

Warner Music Canada is thrilled to announce the signing of guitarist Philip Sayce.  Warner will be releasing Philip’s critically acclaimed album Influence on March 10, 2015. Originally released in Europe in late August 2014 to critical acclaim, the Canadian version of Influence will include two new songs led by the first single, Philip’s incendiary version of the Ten Years After classic “I’d Love To Change The World.”

“Clapton, Page, Hendrix…Philip Sayce.  The young guitarist reviving blues-rock.”

– London Metro, UK

On making the announcement, Warner Music Canada President Steve Kane stated, “Philip is a unique and exciting talent.  He reminds us that playing the blues isn’t something that happens in museums, he brings a vitality and originality to the songs on Influence. We all look forward to bringing Philip and his music to a much wider audience.”

“I am beyond ecstatic to collaborate with Warner Music Canada and to focus my creative energies in my home country,” said Philip Sayce of the signing.  “The Warner Music Canada team truly embodies what it means to celebrate the love of music, and their approach to working with artists is refreshing, healing, and inspiring.”

Born in Wales and raised in Toronto, Canada, Philip Sayce’s love of the guitar started at an early age when his parents introduced him to all of the classics, notably, Clapton, Hendrix, and Beck.  He started playing guitar as a teen and before long was winning admirers at blues jam nights at Grossman’s Tavern in downtown Toronto.  One such admirer was legendary guitarist Jeff Healey who invited Philip to join his band with whom he toured the world for the next couple of years.  After a move to Los Angeles, producer John Shanks introduced Philip to Melissa Etheridge who recruited him for her band. Over the next several years Philip performed on Melissa Etheridge’s albums and was featured during her live sets on world tours.

“Influence is powerful enough to turn him in to Canada’s next homegrown guitar hero.”

– Toronto Sun

“Influence is a culmination of sounds, colors, emotions, and artists who have directly helped to shape my approach and love of music,” said Philip.  “The intention of my own music is to continue the message, power, love, and inspiration that I experience in every artist that has influenced me.”

In 2009 Philip released Peace Machine the first of three solo albums that established him as one of the leading lights in a new generation of blues-rock guitarists.  With each subsequent release (Ruby Electricand Steamroller) his reputation continued to grow, and, in January 2015 Philip signed with Warner Music Canada who will release his fourth album, Influence, produced by Dave Cobb and featuring songs by artists that have inspired Philip over the years as well as original compositions.  Two new recordings produced by Michael Nielsen at Revolution Studios in Toronto are included on the Canadian version of Influence.

“…a career-best record. Influence is worth the wait.” 

– Classic Rock Magazine, UK

News of upcoming tour dates to be announced shortly.

Legendary Blues Guitarist Harvey “The Snake” Mandel Releases Early Solo Albums In 6CD Box Set!

Legendary Blues Guitarist Harvey “The Snake” Mandel Releases Early Solo Albums In 6CD Box Set!

Los Angeles, CA - Innovative blues guitarist Harvey Mandel, has had the kind of career that musicians dream about. Most known for his pivotal work with blues rock institution Canned Heat in 1969 & 70 including their legendary performance at Woodstock, Mandel has over the course of his 6 decade career collaborated with music luminaries such as John Mayall, The Rolling Stones, Love, The Ventures and many more! But Mandel’s genius playing truly shines on his solo efforts, which he began releasing in 1968, and continues to release to this day. Now, some of these early solo albums are being made available in a deluxe 6CD box set from Purple Pyramid Records on January 20. The limited edition Snake Box includes 5 classic solo albums each packaged in its own sleeve with original artwork plus a bonus 1968 concert recording and a full-color booklet with in-depth liner notes! Taking its title from Mandel’s nickname “The Snake” given to him by Canned Heat’s keyboardist for his cracked leather jacket and his snake-like guitar licks, this box set is an essential piece for fans of this lethally talented musician.

Harvey Mandel began his career as the original guitarist for Chicago blues legend Charlie Musselwhite, appearing on his 1966 debut album Stand Back!. He then relocated to the Bay Area, performing often at a club called The Matrix, where local favorites like Jerry Garcia and Elvin Bishop would sit in and jam (a recording of which makes up the bonus disc of Snake Box). He then met up with renowned producer Abe “Voco”' Kesh, releasing his first solo album titled, Cristo Redentor in 1968, which included his extra-terrestrial version of “Wade in the Water,” still a classic to this day. Then the news arrived that Harvey Mandel had replaced Henry Vestine as lead guitarist of Canned Heat, and it was clear that his talents had been noticed by more than just a few musicians. After several tours and 3 albums with the Heat, he was recruited by British blues man John Mayall to be a member of the Bluesbreakers. In 1971 Mandel resumed his solo career, releasing several more albums including Baby Batter & The Snake.

One of Mandel’s most significant session credits was his participation on The Rolling Stones’ 1976 LP Black and Blue. His unique style is evident on the song “Hot Stuff.” When Mick Taylor left the Stones at the end of 1974, Jagger & Co. auditioned various guitarists, among them Mandel and the man who eventually got the job, Ronnie Wood. Following his success with the Stones, he became a busy session player with groups such as Love and The Ventures, and opened for Jeff Beck on his Canadian tour as part of a power trio with Jimmy Haslip, of the Yellowjackets. He relocated to Chicago in the late ‘70s and continued to tour extensively as well as supporting groups such as Roxy Music. Throughout the next 3 decades, Mandel has earned copious praises for both his solo work and his collaborative efforts becoming one of the most influential and best known guitar players of his era. Now’s your chance to own a box set featuring the albums that started it all!

To order the box set: http://geni.us/1e5K

To download on iTunes: http://geni.us/ScV

DISC 1: Cristo Redentor (1968)

1. Cristo Redentor • 2. Before Six • 3. The Lark • 4. Snake • 5. Long Wait • 6. Wade In The Water • 7. Lights Out • 8. Bradley’s Barn • 9. You Can’t Tell Me • 10. Nashville 1 A.M.

DISC 2: Righteous (1969)

1. Righteous • 2. Jive Samba • 3. Love Of Life • 4. Poontang • 5. Just A Hair More • 6. Summer Sequence • 7. Short’s Stuff • 8. Boo-Bee-Doo • 9. Campus Blues

DISC 3: Games Guitars Play (1970)

1. Leavin’ Trunk • 2. Honky Tonk • 3. I Don’t Need No Doctor • 4. Dry Your Eyes • 5. Ridin’ High • 6. Capurange • 7. Señor Blues • 8. Games People Play

DISC 4: Baby Batter (1971)

1. Baby Batter • 2. Midnight Sun • 3. One Way Street • 4. Morton Grove Mama • 5. Freedom Ball • 6. El Stinger • 7. Hank The Ripper

DISC 5: The Snake (1972)

1. The Divining Rod • 2. Pegasus • 3. Lynda Love • 4. Peruvian Flake • 5. The Snake • 6. Uno Ino • 7. Ode To The Owl • 8. Levitation • 9. Bite The Electric Eel

DISC 6: Live At The Matrix 1968

1. Jam • 2. You’ve Got To Feel It • 3. 3 O’Clock In The Morning • 4. She’s A Mojo Worker

Shemekia Copeland Returns To Alligator Records

SINGING SENSATION SHEMEKIA COPELAND RETURNS
TO ALLIGATOR RECORDS

New Album Expected in Fall 2015

Shemekia copeland signs her alligator records contract with label president bruce iglauer

Alligator Records is proud to announce the re-signing of blues/soul/Americana singing sensation Shemekia Copeland to the label she called home from 1998 through 2005. Over the course of her four Alligator albums and her two most recent for Telarc, Copeland's wide-open vision of contemporary blues, roots and soul music showcases the evolution of a passionate artist with a modern musical and lyrical approach. The Chicago Tribune said Copeland delivers "gale force singing and power" with a "unique, gutsy style, vibrant emotional palette and intuitive grasp of the music." She is currently recording new material for a Fall 2015 release with musician Oliver Wood (of The Wood Brothers) producing.

Copeland, a two-time Grammy nominee and daughter of late Texas blues legend Johnny Clyde Copeland, is excited to be back on Alligator. "Historically, Alligator has consistently put out the world's best blues music. Now I'm back to make a little history myself."

Alligator Records president Bruce Iglauer couldn't be happier. "I’m thrilled to welcome Shemekia back into the Alligator family. When we first signed her in 1997, she was already a mature and extremely soulful blues singer. Now, with the experience of thirteen more years of live performances, she has blossomed into a charismatic artist who can deliver roots rock, Americana and blues with equal power and authority, and with wonderful subtlety, shading and nuance. Oliver Wood has proven to be a terrific producer for her. We’re very much looking forward to her next album, and proud to have it coming on Alligator."

When a young Shemekia Copeland first appeared on the scene in 1998 with her groundbreaking debut CD, Turn The Heat Up, she instantly became a blues superstar. Critics from around the country celebrated her music as fans of all ages agreed that an unstoppable new talent had arrived. News outlets from The New York Times to CNN took note of Copeland's talent, engaging personality, and true star power.

Copeland followed up with 2000's Grammy-nominated Wicked, 2002's Talking To Strangers (produced by Dr. John) and 2008’s The Soul Truth (produced by Steve Cropper). In that short period of time, she earned eight Blues Music Awards, a host of Living Blues Awards (including the prestigious 2010 Blues Artist Of The Year) and more accolades from fans, critics and fellow musicians. Two highly successful releases on Telarc (including 2012's Grammy-nominated 33 1/3) cemented her reputation as a singer who, according to NPR's All Things Considered, "embodies the blues with her powerful vocal chops and fearless look at social issues." USA Today said, "Copeland is a singer with fervor and funk, power and range.” She has appeared numerous times on national television, National Public Radio, and in newspapers and magazines. She is a mainstay on countless commercial and non-commercial radio stations.

Copeland has performed thousands of gigs at clubs, festivals and concert halls all over the world. She's played with Eric Clapton, Bonnie Raitt, B.B. King, Buddy Guy, Mick Jagger, Keith Richards, James Cotton and many others. She opened for The Rolling Stones and entertained US troops in Iraq and Kuwait. At the 2011 Chicago Blues Festival, Joyce Threatt, daughter of the late Koko Taylor, presented Copeland with Taylor's tiara, and both the City of Chicago and the State of Illinois, by official proclamation, declared Copeland to be the new “Queen of the Blues”. In 2012, she performed at the White House for President and Mrs. Obama.

Like always, Copeland has her eyes fixed firmly on the future, prepared to continue to break new musical ground. "I want to keep growing, to be innovative," she says. "So it's not that I'm going back to Alligator. I'm moving ahead with Alligator. Together we are going to make the most exciting music of my career."