I just had the opportunity to review the most recent release, Strange Things Happening, by Kid Ramos and it's terrific! Opening with title track, Strange Things Happening Everyday, a great track written by Sister Rosetta Thorpe, one of the great unsung stars of the blues. Brian Templeton on vocal leads the way joined by Dave Limina rockin' on organ, Mike Turturro on bass, Stephen Hodges on drums and Kid Ramos playing both tight rhythm and excellent lead guitar. Excellent opener. With definite spiritual roots, I'm Working On A Building, Templeton really pushes the track higher and Kid really has his guitar talking. Very nice! Kid's son Johnny Ramos, really stands out on soulful, Oh What A Meeting. His vocals are outstanding as are the backing vocals and Kid's playing is over the top dripping with feeling. Wow! Driving blues rocker, An Answer for Isaac conjures a Muddy Waters feel with Templeton chanting the lyrics and fiery harmonica and Ramos playing wide open on guitar with plenty of overdrive. An outstanding take on The Louvin Brothers' (Edgar Edens penned) Satan's Jeweled Crown is really terrific with a traditional Spanish Bajo Sexto presented in excellent fashion by Kid and with Johnny and Templeton sharing the lead vocals in traditional Mexican style. I love the trumpet work by Takazo and Kaizo Hall and Jesse Cuevas' contributions on accordion. This track kicks into 4th gear for the finale. Excellent. Wrapping the release is Senior Roy Crain's I'm A Pilgrim in solid revival style. What do you get when you meld revival and Ramos? Pure blues featuring Templeton on lead vocal, and Kid on lead and rhythm with his classic tone. Limina on piano and organ held tight by Turturro and Hodges make this a strong close for one of the best new releases I've heard this year. You owe it to yourself to hear this album.
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