Bman's Blues Report

Debuted at #17 on Living Blues Radio Charts for June!

I just received Gotta Strange Feeling , the newest release from Li'L Ronnie and the Grand Dukes . This is a really interesting blend of blues sounds featuring Li'L Ronnie Owens on vocals and harp, Ivan Appelrouth on guitar, John Sheppard on bass, Mark Young on drums, John Fralin on piano and North Side Slim on percussion. Owens wrote or co wrote 12 of the 14 tracks on the release demonstrating well his capabilities not only to play and sing but also as a writer. The recording starts off with Can't Buy My Love , a slow shuffle tune. The track shows a slinky tightness as well as nice guitar and harp riffs. Cold Hard Cash is a great southern funk track along the lines of Little Feat.They get a great groove going here and nice vocal harmonies. Sweet Sue is a smart jump style blues and gives Owens the opportunity take a sweet harp solo. One of my favorite tracks on the recording is She's Bad Bad News , a loping Texas style blues. On Louis Jordan track, Buzz Me , Appelrou...