Bman's Blues Report

 I just had the opportunity to review the most recent release, Half & Half, from Lara Price and it's got the spunk of a "real" classic blues rocker from the early 70's. Opening with We're Still Friends , a bluesy rocker, Lara Price, leads with her gutsy vocal style with Randy Hayes and Kid Andersen on drums, Endre Tarczy on bass, Baxter Robertson on keys, Sue McCracklin, Maureen Smith, and Lisa Leuschner on backing vocals and Mike Zito and Might Mike Schermer whipping out some sweet guitar interplay. Solid opener. Funky, Things Ain't Everything , has a terrific bottom, courtesy of Clint Simmons on drums and Nick Jay on bass. Price slips into a great vocal slot on this one and David Jimenez and Chris Tondre add tight guitar riffs, with Trevor Nealon on keys and McCracklin, Smith and Leuschner on backing vocals. This will get you moving. Solitude is a vocal showcase for Price singing an Ellington song, paired with Matt Burger on guitar. Very nice. Wrapping...

I just received the newest release, I Mean Business from Lara Price and it's got spunk. Opening with R&B track, Get It When I Want It , Price leads the way on vocal backed by Derrick Martin on drums, Steve Evans on bass, Kid Andersen on guitar, Micheal Peloquin on sax, Micheal Rinta on trombone, Mike Rose on trumpet, Sue McCracklin and Maureen Smith on backing vocals. With it's Motown overtones, this track is cool! With a bit more of a Memphis sound, Cryin' Over You has a smooth, soul sound. With warm horn backing, Smith and McCracklin on backing vocal and with Mighty Mike Schermer on lead guitar, this track has strong commercial potential. With a Latin rhythm, traces of Procol Harem and a thick thread to Bond themes, Undone dances along nicely. Schermer rips a clean guitar solo punched up by the horn section and the driving bass work of Evans. Moon In The Mirror has super balance and may be my favorite track on the release. Price's vocals are creamy smooth...