Charlie Parr - Stumpjumper

Charlie Parr   New album "Stumpjumper" premiering now at NPR Folk Alley Release date April 28 on Red House Records Available for pre-order here  "The raw metallic resonator guitar sound of Charlie Parr registers as a magnet of sorts – in the same way we’re drawn to the curious sounds of Tom Waits and even the indie folk of The Mountain Goats." - Glide Magazine

APRIL 21, 2015:  While a legend in some circles, Northwoods songwriter/guitarist Charlie Parr may be a new name to some music fans. Long a part of the vibrant Duluth, MN, music scene (Alan Sparhawk and Low, Trampled by Turtles), Charlie will release Stumpjumper, his first album with Grammy-winning Minnesota indie label Red House, on April 28. He's announced additional tour dates  through fall (scroll down for complete dates). NPR Folk Alley is streaming the album in its entirety this week, preview it here.  As well as being the first album Charlie has recorded outside of his native Minnesota, Stumpjumper is his first to feature a full band and was recorded in rural North Carolina with producer Phil Cook (Megafaun, Hiss Golden Messenger). Percussive and raw, the 11 songs on Stumpjumper, 10 originals and his version of the venerable murder ballad, “Delia,” could be lost field recordings from another era. Charlie's blistering picking -- he switches between acoustic guitar (he plays National resonator guitars), dobro and banjo -- and keening, cut-through-the-crowd vocals resonate with a conviction that runs deep and true. Parr’s inspiration is drawn from the alternately fertile and frozen soil of Minnesota; his songs exude a Midwestern sensibility and humility. He grew up in the Hormel meatpacking city of Austin, MN (population 25,000) where most of the world's favorite tinned meat, Spam, is still manufactured. (He won't eat hot dogs to this day.) The combination of growing up with both of his parents working proud union jobs in an industrial meat factory and his largely rural environment had a broad impact on his songwriting. Growing up around hard physical work and being close to the land are what comes through in Charlie's songs. Most of his recordings to date have eschewed typical studio settings; he’s recorded in warehouses, garages, basements and storefronts, usually on vintage equipment, which gives his work the historic feel of field recordings. It's not because he wants to sound like he was discovered 75 years ago by Alan Lomax, it’s because most modern recording studios make the reticent and self-effacing Parr feel uncomfortable.   His heartfelt and plaintive original folk blues and traditional spirituals don't strive for authenticity: they are authentic.   Press: "Parr's songs ring out with a working-class ethos and a welcome-home energy." - The Bluegrass Situation "The native Minnesotan’s style can best be described as new music from an older time – sometimes dark and desolate, sometimes raucous and danceable." - Dan Forte (Vintage Guitar)   "He draws from the well of human suffering, but does so with humor and just a dash of folk tale mystery." - American Standard Time   “Parr may have been born during the Nixon era, but you can taste the grit of the Dust Bowl in his music.” - Dusted “Among the contenders in the every burgeoning indie folk, or new folk, genre, there are a lot of pretenders and acts trying desperately to “look and play the part”, but five seconds in front of Charlie Parr and you know you’re dealing with the real thing.”- Jim Beckman (KEXP) “John Fahey described the music he collected on American Primitive Vol. 1 as ‘made under the influence of enthusiasm.’ The enthusiasm he spoke of was a kind of possession, whether Christian or diabolical he couldn’t be sure; a mode of ecstatic communication that intervened in the delivery of sacred and secular messages alike. Charlie Parr’s recordings, which make splendid companions to Fahey’s anthology, are similarly enthusiastic.” - Popmatters Tour Dates: TU 4/21 Duluth, MN - Tycoons Alehouse and Eatry WE 4/22 Duluth, MN - The Red Herring Lounge TH 4/23 Winona, MN - Midwest Music Festival (Broken World Records) FR 4/24 Stoughton, WI - Stoughton Opera House SA 4/25 Zumbrota, MN - Crossings At Carnegie TU 4/28 Duluth, MN - Duluth Homegrown Music Festival TH 4/30 Duluth, MN - Duluth Homegrown Music Festival FR 5/1 Minneapolis, MN - Varsity Theater SA 5/2 Fargo, ND - Aquarium FR 6/5 Ft. Collins, CO - Moe’s Original BBQ - Choice City Stomp TH 6/11 Eau Claire, WI - Blue Ox Music Festival Country Jam FR 6/12 Duluth, MN - Red Herring Lounge FR 6/19 Bayport, MN - Bayport BBQ SA 6/20 Hancock, MI - The Orpheum Theater WE 6/24 Asheville, NC - Grey Eagle TH 6/25 Charlotte, NC - US National Whitewater Center FR 6/26 Wilmington, DE - World Cafe Live SA 6/27 Windham, VT - The Frendly Gathering TU 6/30 Ann Arbor, MI - The Ark WE 7/1 Nashville, IN - BigWoods Brewing TH 7/2 Cincinnati, OH - Washington Park FR 7/3 Berwyn, IL - Fitzgerald's-Berwin SA 7/4 Stoughton, WI - Stoughton Opera House WE 7/8 Buffalo, NY - Sportsman's Tavern TH 7/9 Cambridge, MA - Atwoods Tavern SA 7/11 Greenfield, MA - Green River Music Fest SU 7/12 Saratoga Springs, NY - Caffe Lena FR 7/17 Remer, MN - Double Barrel Blues Fest SA 7/18 Stillwater, MN - Stillwater Log Jam SA 7/18 Minneapolis, MN - Patrick’s Cabaret FR 7/31 Red Wind, MN - Falconer Vineyard SA 8/1 Somerset, WI - Somerset Amphitheater FR 8/21 Durango, CO - Durango Blues Train SA 8/22 Durango, CO - Durango Blues Train TH 8/27 St, Paul, MN - Minnesota State Fair FR 8/28 St, Paul, MN - Minnesota State Fair SA 8/29 Friendship, IN - Whispering Beard Folk Festival WE 9/2 Minneapolis, MN - Midwest Music Showcase @ Target Field SA 9/5 Duluth, MN - Red Herring Lounge SA 9/12 Ames, IA - DG's Taphouse SU 9/27 Johnsville, CA - Lost Sierra Hoedown WE 10/14 St Could, MN - Pioneer Place on Fifth Theatre SA 10/24 Austin, MN - Paramount Theatre SA 12/19 Lake City, MN - Oak Center General Store

Chalet Music, LLC artist: Peter Novelli - St Amant Sessions - New release Review

I just received the newest release, St Amant Sessions, from Peter Novelli and it and it has a lot of variety. Opening with Louisiana Sunrise with a country 2 step feel, Novelli, a vocalist and guitar player is joined by slide player extraordinaire, Sonny Landreth, who lights it up. Boudin is a really cool funky jazz track with Novelli showing his own guitar chops on lead melodic guitar. Backed by Chris Senac on bass and Brian Brignac on drums this is one of my favorite tracks on the release. Je Ne Sais Quoi is straight up rocker with cajun twist. Featuring Sammy Naquin on accordion and Kevin McKendree on keys, Novelli shines on both guitar and vocal. Very nice! Spirit Passing By has a serious strut and is heavily driven by Brignac on drums. Novelli's guitar attack on this track is raw and carefree...I like it! Woman In My Dreams is a smooth pop track with a jazz structure. Backing vocals by Bob Henderson and Elaine Foster as well as a voracious guitar lead from Novelli makes this track stand out. Story In Your Mind is a smooth ballad with a nice harmonic guitar solo backed by McKendree on organ. Bob Henderson steps up with some nice sax work as well. A sure radio track. Shreveport Stomp, a boogie instrumental, has that Louisiana country instrumental flavor with slick guitar riffs and McKendree reinforcing on piano. Thinkin' or Drinkin' really gets down into the Louisiana mud with R&B style funk. Naquin adds tasteful accordion harmony on Novelli's lead vocals and Henderson and Foster on backing vocal. Henderson throws down a hot sax solo as well. Rounding out the mix is Novelli's stylistic guitar solo. Another of my favorite tracks on the release is I-10 Boogie with a real Elmore James style guitar riff over a boogie beat. Novelli really shines on guitar on this track taking it for a hard ride. A break into a more Cha Cha feel gives Chubby Carrier the opportunity to hit his triple row accordion and then into a New Orleans style piano groove for McKendree on keys, then into a Latin feel for guitar. Rolling back into a Texas blues/boogie this track is hot! Wrapping the release is Zydeco Ride, again with Chubby Carrier leading the way on accordion.

  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”

 

Nugene Records artist: Ian Siegal - The Picnic Sessions - New Release Review

I just received the newest release, The Picnic Sessions, from Ian Siegel and it's laid back and loose. What do you get when you bring together 5 of the top folk story, blues, country instrumentalists together in one room? You get the Picnic Sessions! Opening with Stone Cold Soul, a simple country blues track, Ian Siegal, Luther Dickinson, Alvin Youngblood Hart, Jimbo Mathus and Cody Dickinson lay down a really gritty track with guitar, mandolin and vocal harmony. Very cool! How Come You're Still Here? has a folksy, uptempo, Dylanesque feel with guitar and banjo. Townes Van Zandt's Heavenly Houseboat Blues is a really sweet little blues track with authentic country style vocal blending. With guitar, slide and mandolin, this track lays in the pocket. Excellent! Beulah Land has the sound of early American folk music with tight symmetry. Changing tempo mid tune, the track takes on a more western flavor with western steel style riffs and telling a great story. Keen and Peachy, has a definite bop to it with and definitive slide part, cool harp and a steady foot stomp. This is great music for just kicking back and throwing one down. Wasted Freedom is the "classic" track on the release with it's timeless warmth. With it's Kristofferson feel could be redone over and again in years to come. Tom Russell track, Gallo Del Cielo, a Spanish based ballad, is rhythm guitar driven with Spanish guitar flavors and rugged vocals. Very nice! Hard Times (Come Again No More) is a really solid ballad with finger picked resonator and slide work. The earthy vocals both on lead and in harmony give this track a particular richness. Talkin' Overseas Pirate Blues is another really tight folk blues that will definitely put one in mind of Dylan. This track will please your ears and stimulate your minds eye. Very nice! Wrapping the release is Only Tryin' To Survive, a more colorful track with a broader instrumental palate. With blusier vocals and bright mando lead over guitar and blended vocal harmonies, this is a great finisher. This is a cool release with a relaxed country blues feel. Enjoy!

  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”

 

Bill Wyman announces first UK solo album in 33 years

BILL WYMAN ANNOUNCES FIRST UK SOLO ALBUM IN 33 YEARS 'BACK TO BASICS' TO BE RELEASED JUNE 22 ON PROPER RECORDS

Back To  Basics does exactly what it says on the tin. It is unashamedly stripped back. The snappy lyrics are refreshingly audible and the instrumentation is clean, subtle and accomplished. Back To Basics wears its influences on its sleeve – Tom Waits, Leonard Cohen, JJ Cale – and there’s more than a passing nod to Bill’s own English background. It is that rare thing, a meld of styles and genres that actually work together - uplifting in a jaunty, dancey way and pensive in a bluesy, narrative way. As might be expected from one of the world’s best known bass players Back To Basics drives along with a rhythmic muscularity, and then slows the pace for more autobiographical lyric and melody.  It is an album that warrants repeated play. It is also an album that’s long overdue… Bill Wyman’s last solo UK album, Bill Wyman, was released in 1982. Back To Basics comprises only his fourth UK solo release.

But Bill has not been idle of course. 31 years in the Rolling Stones, author of seven learned books, globally exhibited photographer, metal detecting expert with his own brand of metal detector, producer, composer for film and TV and founder of the very successful Rhythm Kings who release CDs and tour regularly - he has had a pretty full calendar. It was only when archiving old demos last year he realised he had around 60 songs he’d never released.

He chose five songs that needed reworking and did just that. He put them together with a bunch of brand new songs and went into his studio to record them.

“Initially I thought I’m a bit old for this but then I thought all the old blues musicians played till they dropped so why don’t I give it a go…” B.W.

The CD comprises 13 tracks in total, eight of which are new songs. Musicians joining Bill in the studio include long time collaborator/guitarist Terry Taylor, Guy Fletcher (Mark Knopfler) , Graham Broad and Robbie McIntosh while co-production credit goes to Andy Wright (Jeff Beck, Eurythmics, Simply Red).

On Bill Wyman’s Back To Basics you get music that’s the real deal...and you’re all the better for it.

BACK TO BASICS
Track Listing

1. What & If & When & Why
2. I Lost My Ring
3. Love, Love, Love
4. Stuff (Can't Get Enough)
5. Running Back To You
6. She's Wonderful
7. Seventeen
8. I'll Pull You Through
9. November
10. Just A Friend Of Mine
11. It's A Lovely Day
12. I Got Time
13. Exciting (Bonus track for Itunes only)
www.billwyman.com

Lee Palmer to release third CD "Like Elway" on May 12

Lee Palmer to release third CD "Like Elway" on May 12

Talented singer-songwriter Lee Palmer is set to release his third album Like Elway on May 12, 2015. Although a musician and writer for most of his life, Palmer didn’t release his first album One Take: Live at Canterbury until 2013. He quickly followed with a second release, 60 Clicks in 2014. Both received positive reviews and airplay across North America & Europe.   With a unique mixture of blues, country, jazz and Americana, Like Elway features nine tracks, with every song showcasing Palmer’s talents as a singer and songwriter. The writing for this album started with a 10-day trip to Nashville this past summer. Two tracks, “Like Elway” and “Lonely at the Top” were a direct result of that musical emersion in Tennessee. The balance were written in the fall of 2014.   The album was recorded live at Noble Street studios with JUNO winner George Seara behind the mixing console. The players for the session included Al Cross, David Woodhead, Lance Anderson and Elmer Ferrer. Later additions to the recording included cameo appearances by: Roly Platt on harmonica, vocalist Mary McKay and Joaquin Nuñez on Cajon and percussion.   The album serves up a mix of emotions from light and witty, (Axe to Grind, Rockin’ this Chair, This Feels Like One of Those Days and Lonely at the Top) to serious tunes like (Life’s a Mess, Maybe That’s Why and Those Winter Blues). Palmer also serves up some unique spins with the talking country-blues title track Like Elway and rockier Have a Wonderful Life, co-written with friend, guitarist and co-producer, Elmer Ferrer.   Palmer doesn’t slide into any one genre easily. In past reviews, his musical sound has been compared to musically diverse talents like Willie Nelson and the early Downchild Blues Band. One thing is for sure, he continues to write and share his musical stories in an honest and straight from the heart fashion.   The debut of Like Elway is sure to further showcase Palmer’s musical talent as a vocalist, and songwriter. “I continue to learn each time I go into the studio,” says Palmer, “I feel this is my best effort yet and I am extremely thankful to those who have helped me on my journey.”     Quotes   "A fresh, pleasant, first-rate singer-songwriter. Worthy to be heard, this Lee Palmer. Where have you been all this time, Lee?" - Fred Schmale, Real Roots Cafe   “Americana with a big arching A …You get the feeling that in those years before he started making his own records, that Palmer was a bit of a collector of stories and was probably more than a bit player in a lot of them, there is a tone, a quality to the material that suggests a real sense of ownership.” – Neil King, Fatea   @leepalmermusic  /leepalmermusic   For more information on Lee Palmer, visit leepalmer.ca      Tracklist   1. Rockin’ This Chair 3:36 2. Life’s A Mess 3:13 3. Those Winter Blues 4:37 4. Lonely At The Top 4:02 5. Like Elway 4:00 6. This Feels Like One Of Those Days 2:52 7. Maybe That’s Why 3:46 8. Have A Wonderful Life 3:32 9. Axe To Grind 4:00

Larry "Fuzzy" Knight's Blowin Smoke Rhythm & Blues Revue 'Spring' into Harvelle's

      

                                                

 

    Larry "Fuzzy" Knight's Blowin' Smoke Rhythm & Blues Revue Featuring The Fabulous Smokettes 'Spring' Into Harvelle's

 

 

Saturday, April 25, 2015 from 9:30 p.m.-1:30 a.m.

 

 

  (Santa Monica, CA) - Larry "Fuzzy" Knight's Blowin' Smoke Rhythm & Blues Revue featuring The Fabulous Smokettes, 'Spring' into Harvelle's,

1432 4th St., in Santa Monica, Saturday, April 25. Admission is $10. 9:30pm-1 am. Info: (310) 395-1676 or http://santamonica.harvelles.com .

 

 

  Knight, a longtime seminal figure in the blues/R&B/soul music scene with a career that streches back several decades, proudly fronts the same eleven-piece ensemble he first started in southern California back in 1995 (the band just celebrated their 20th anniversary in March).

 

  Blowin' Smoke was feted in the April 2015 issue of national publication, Music Connection.

 

  

 

 

Do You Remember Where You Were & What You Were Doing In 1995, The Year Blowin' Smoke First Formed & Started Playing Live in SoCal?

 

 

  Two decades ago - 1995, to be exact - a gallon of gasoline was $1.09, a dozen eggs were 87 cents, postage stamps were 32 cents each, and the average cost of a new car was $15,500.00. Also that year, longtime Southern California musician Larry "Fuzzy" Knight formed the Blowin' Smoke Rhythm & Blues Revue, a unique, multi-instrumental band with a big lineup and an even larger sound, augmented by three superb female vocalists collectively known as The Smokettes.  Their debut album "Beyond The Blues Horizon" was hailed by the L.A. Times, L.A. Weekly, Music Connection and more for it's smart blend of blues, R&B, and soul, utilization of a rich-sounding horn ensemble and of course, those ever-present Smokettes on vocals.

 

  Two decades later, much has changed (especially those aforementioned prices!). but one thing has remained constant - Knight and Blowin' Smoke are still going strong, entertaining audiences at festivals and better nightclubs throughout the Southland, often accompanied onstage by renowned guest musicians. "Blowin' Smoke conveys a welcome reminder to all people with a beating heart that putting a full horn section in front of a smoking rhythm section, then layering three charismatic and powerful vocalists on top of that - all live and at the same time - is music at its most enriching," writes MUSIC CONNECTION. "Bandleader Larry "Fuzzy" Knight reminds all of us in the modern technological era that real people with real instruments and real personalities are playing music that hits the gut and forces the knees to bend."

 

  Knight - whose impressive musical resume' includes a decade-plus stint as bassist for one of the great SoCal bands to emerge from the psychedelic era of the Sixties, Spirit - recently announced the addition of a new member to the Blowin’ Smoke lineup, Don Preston.  Preston is a former original member of Frank Zappa’s Mothers of Invention and co-founder of the “GrandMothers”, of which he recorded a total of thirty-plus albums.

 

  

                            www.blowinsmokeband.com

              https://www.facebook.com/blowinsmokeband

 

 

Larry "Fuzzy" Knight Interview - Orange County Blues Society

Beyond The Blues Horizon - CD Review (BMans Blues Report)

Live Show Review - Los Angeles Beat

Larry "Fuzzy" Knight Feature - The Argonaut

Ghetto Surf Music artist: Billy Hector - Old School Thang - New release review

I just received the newest release (June 27, 2015), Old School Thang, and it's smokin! Opening with blues rocker, She's Gone, Billy Hector on vocal and guitar is backed by Tommy Labella on sax, Steve Jankowski on trumpet and trombone, David Nunez on organ, Tim Tindall on bass and Sim Cain on drums. With a Latin flair, the horns seem to make the tune sway in the breeze, anchored by Nunez and Hector splits the hurricane with sweet guitar riffs. Don Nix's, Goin' Down comes out hot and heavy with tributes to the mixes by Freddie King and Jeff Beck. I've always loved this track and Hector launches right into it with both feet. This track rips! On the funky title track, Old School Thang, Hector fuses James Brown and his own style of funk for a cool but nasty guitar jam party. Winston Roye drives hard on the bass and Cain really nails the drum kit. Very cool! Fake ID has a really strong swagger, emphasized by Hector's slide work and additional guitars by Micky Melchiondo. Tim Tidell on bass and Sim Cain hold down the bottom as Hector and Melchiondo jam. Nice! Vitamin Big Daddy is a slinky blues track with a horn melody pumped up big time by Labella and Jankowski. I really like Hector's slide work on this track. Excellent!! Country flavored blues track Come On Home has a bright rhythm with Winston Roye on cowbell and Ken Sorenson on harp. Evil Slick 'N Sly is a slinky track with a contagious guitar riff and stiff drum reinforcement. With that I Put A Spell On You kind of vamp, this track is really hard to beat. Hector even hows at the moon as he blows off the wicked guitar riffs. Excellent! Springy and light, Hammer, has a jazzy blues approach. Larry Crockett takes over the drums on this one and Hector stings like Albert Collins surrounded by an easy funky guitar rhythm. Rita is a really cool swampy blues with Hector's vocals backed by Suzan Lastovica and Joshua Mark. A gritty guitar solo on this track instead of horns straight from Bourbon Street gives it a fresh flavor. Excellent! Down and dirty, Short and Sweet Blues finds Hector attacking guitar blues straight on old style. This instrumental track complimented by Nunez on organ, Labella on sax, Pete Maurer on Trombone and Carlos Francis on trumpet is hot! Wrapping the release is super funky People Of The World. Rich Monica takes the drums on this one and Mel Taylor steps up with a hot sax solo and Hector grabs it and shakes it hard. Super, primarily instrumental conclusion to a really smokin 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”

 

Giddy Minion artists: Ben Rice & Lucy Hammond - Destination Clarksdale - New Release review

I just received the newest release, Destination Clarksdale, by Ben Rice & Lucy Hammond and they make a fine acoustic blues duo. Opening with Ida Mae a cool shuffle track, Rice lays down a fine guitar base and blends nicely vocally with Hammond. Very cool. Next up is Oh Lord, a quiet delta style track performed with solitude and rich feeling. Rice has his resonator ringing and again the vocal blendings between Rice and Hammond are quite fine. On Gary Davis styled Wants Me Back Again, Rice really shows that he is a fine vocalist and Hammond knows how to push him to even higher heights. With only resonator finger picking, this is my favorite track on the release. A more contemporary track with a modern beat, Turn My Back On You would seem the certain radio track with clever guitar work and a catchy melody. Wrapping the release is Muddy Water featuring Hammond in the lead role. Her rich vocal talent is nicely demonstrated here with only a very light rhythmic acoustic guitar accompaniment. This is a solid release by Rice and Hammond. It's easy to see why their performances have gained them IBC finalist status.

  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”

 

Blue Dot Records artist: Jackie Payne - I Saw The Blues - New Release Review

I just received the newest release, I Saw The Blues, from Jackie Payne and it's a funky blues party! Opening with Back To Normal, a soulful ballad with a nice walking bass line from Endre Tarczy and with horn backing from Ed Early (trombone), Jeff Lewis (trumpet) and Frankie Ramos (sax). Kid Andersen lays in a scorching bluesy guitar solo nicely complimenting Payne's vocals. Next up is title track, I Saw The Blues, R&B track with a rural feel. Lorenzo Farrell does a real nice job on organ on this track and Anthony Paule gives the rhythm a funky feel on guitar. Aki Kumar adds his always tight harp work. Very nice! Anthony Paule rips it open on Full Moon Blues with rich slide guitar work. Derek D'Mar martin on drums and Farrell on organ are joined by Bob Welsh on piano and Paynes vocals are real nice. Full blown swing blues When The Blues Comes Knockin', features Payne leading the way with really strong vocals and solid horn reinforcement. Kid Andersen really takes a nice walk on the fretboard on this track making it one of my favorites on the release. Basic R&B styled Wife, Woman, Hootchie stays the basic line sounding like it could have been performed during the prime R&B days with particularly nice backing vocals and punchy guitar riffs. Paynes vocals are particularly strong on this track. On Kicking Back With The Blues, Anthony Paule selects just the right spots to insert stinging blues guitar riffs nicely accenting Paynes' vocals. Ed Early steps up with a killer trombone solo. Piano boogie, Feel Like Doing My Thing features Bob Welsh on piano and he really rolls. Payne's vocals are perfect for this mix and Farrell lays down a nice organ line punctuated by Early, Lewis (with a nice muted trumpet solo) and Eric Spaulding on horns making this a great track. Slowing it down and getting it dirty, Six Million Dollar Man plays it right down the blues highway. Andersen rips it a new one with a hot, heart felt guitar solo, and the horns are strong but this track is all about the vocal and Payne really has a take no prisoners attack. Excellent! Another funky track, I Get Off On It, gives Tarcyz the chance to step up with a great seriously funky bass line. With a lot of the swagger and Kid Andersen working the wah wah and vocoder, this track really gets you moving. Easing off the pedal with a T-Bone Walker style track, Rock Me With A Steady Roll, Payne shows the more sensitive side of his voice. Bob Welsh rolls out a cool piano line giving Lewis a nice opportunity for a tight trumpet solo followed by a really hot sax solo from Frankie Ramos. Oh yeah, Andersen slips in some hot riffs of his own on guitar! Little Johnny Taylor's Somewhere Down The Line has a great feel. Payne hits it running and Ramos tears it up on sax...really! Kumar, Lewis ans Welsh each get a few really nice riffs off but don't miss the great bass work of Tarcz. Wrapping the release is Ollie Nightingale's I'll Drink Your Bathwater Baby. Yeah, I haven't met that one, but it is a great track to close a really powerful release. Payne never eases up and Andersen rips another great guitar solo on this track. Check it out!

  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”

 

Chicago-Based Blues/Roots Guitarist Voo Davis Creates a "Midnight Mist" on His New CD, Coming April 28 on Butter & Bacon Records, with Bonus Video Included

Chicago-Based Blues/Roots Guitarist Voo Davis Creates a Midnight Mist on His New CD, Coming April 28 on Butter & Bacon Records, with Bonus Video Included

CHICAGO, IL – Guitarist/singer Voo Davis announces an April 28 release date for Midnight Mist, the third CD from this talented musician whose musical sound gumbo encompasses the roots of blues, with additional flavorings from Americana and jam band spices. Produced by Davis and recorded in organic analog sound at Bogalusa, Louisiana’s Studio in the Country, Midnight Mist includes a bonus video of “Riverside Blues,” filmed in and around Clarksdale, Mississippi, that perfectly captures the spirit of the new music on the album. To watch the video for the song, which Davis directed and edited: 

“Being able to return to Studio in the Country and expand my guitar sounds was something I really looked forward to on this project,” says Davis about the recording sessions. “The tones were something that I really wanted to play with, not just get stuck on one sound.”

Guitar tones are something of a specialty with Voo Davis, who played an assortment of vintage guitars, as well as pedal steel, mandolin, and keyboards, including all the instrumentation on two of the album’s 14 tracks. Joining him on Midnight Mist are Craig Borchers – drums; Michael Burkart - Hammond B3 organ; Reggie Winterland – bass; Calvin Conway - harmonica, fiddle; Carolyn Broussard and Dorian Rush - background vocals.

Coming off the critical success of his last album, Vicious Things, Voo Davis continues to build on the momentum of what has come in the past with a keen eye toward the future. While all three of his albums show differences, the common thread among all of them is Voo’s ability to mix genres of music and blending them into a common thread that flows naturally in each release.

   

“Midnight Mist isn’t like my previous two albums, but I think it’s a mixture of both with a more mature side,” he states. “The difference between the first two and this one is that on Midnight Mist the song took precedence.”

A nonbeliever in slick computer fixes, Davis uses the one-take approach throughout the new disc, relying on musicianship instead of computers, emotion instead of effects. The result is an album that has a live performance feel to it with an energy level that is palpable.

“We recorded the album in three days, two of which were spent on instrumentation, and on the third day I finished up vocals. It was ten hours in the booth that day and if something didn’t work the first or second time we moved on.”

Born in Anniston, Alabama, Brian “Voo” Davis’ moved with his family to Chicago while still a child. That transition helped embed his Alabama clay roots musical foundation with some Chicago juke joint flash. The resulting sound mix permeates throughout his overdriven acoustic slide guitar playing style. Touring with former Koko Taylor guitarist and Blues Music Award-winner Eddie King, Davis learned to travel the blues circuit and sharpen his craft alongside one of the best. Critics began to take notice, too: Illinois Entertainer hailed Davis’ vocals as “built for the blues;” while iTunes called him “one of those rarities who takes his music to the same ol’ hangouts but finds something new and revelatory in the experience;” and Goldmine Magazine summarized its review by describing his music as a “Hendrix/Buddy Guy/RL Burnside combo of blues-rock chops.” 

His 2012 basement-recorded release, A Place for Secrets, spent seven months running through the Americana and Roots Music charts respectively, while surprising the blues/Americana music scene with an overdriven acoustic mix of slide-based guitar songs. While personal tragedy with the untimely passing of his wife in 2009 motivated the young guitarist back to music, the songs Davis has created since that time have been called “lyrically encouraging.”

Blind Pig Records artists: The Cash Box Kings - Holding Court - New Release review

I just received the newest release (April 28, 2015), Holding Court, by The Cash Box Kings and it's hot! Opening with Jump Jackson and Sonny Thompson's I Ain't Gonna Be No Monkey Man, Oscar Wilson leads the way on vocal and master harp man, Joe Nosek, really puts the Chicago into the track. Billy Flynn takes the guitar solo on this track and Kenny "Beedy Eyes" Smith holds the bottom on drums. On Download Blues, Wilson and Nosek lay down a cool shuffle track and Joel Paterson adds nice guitar and backing vocals. On Gotta Move Out To The Suburbs, CBK gets a great Chicago blues groove going with Mark Haines on drums and Beau Sample on bass. Patterson steps out again with a really stylistically sweet guitar solo for a little extra spice. On Cash Box Boogie Nosek takes front and center on both lead vocal and harp. Barrelhouse Chuck weaves in some cool piano riffs and Paterson again smokes the fretboard. Nosek closes the track with a nice long harp solo with tight support from Smith. Very cool! One of my favorite tracks on this release is a modern cover of the classic JL Hooker, Hobo Blues. Wilson does an excellent job on lead vocals on the track with Paterson on religiously traditional blues guitar riffs. Excellent! On swing track, Baby Without You, Nosek has the mic for lead vocal and harp, joined by upright bass by Sample and Haines on drums. Paterson and Flinn handle the guitar work nicely and Chuck rolls the keys keeping it tight. Very nice! On Latin influenced, Juju, Alex Hall adds a nice claves part giving the track a real spice and Nosek leading on vocal and harp is joined by Chuck, and Paterson making for a really sweet mix. Willie Love's Everybody's Fishin' is hot hot hot. Wilson does some of his best vocal work, Nosek blows the life out of the harp and Paterson really lights up the fretboard. Excellent! Jimmy Rogers' track, Out On The Road, takes the pace down low and Nosek really takes his harp for a traditional ride. Wilson's vocals are spot on and rich and Brad Ber really does a nice job on bass. Sugar Pea is light and springy with Nosek handling the lead vocals. Mark Haines with brushes on drums and Sample on upright bass, Paterson's tasty blues riffs really spring to life. I Miss You Miss Anne is a subtle shuffle with nice guitar chorded riffs. Nosek keeps the vocals simple and Paterson busts loose on guitar with a crisp solo over Barrelhouse chuck on organ and Flynn on rhythm. On I'm A real Lover, Wilson grabs the groove just right and accompanied primarily by Nosek on harp, Flynn on guitar, Sample on upright and Haines on drums, the CBK's keep is simple and effective. Wrapping the release is Quarter To Blue, a super tight slower blues instrumental with Nosek really laying it out there. Paterson and Flynn both contribute some really nice guitar riffs complimented by Sample and Haines. Excellent closer!

  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”

 

Percy Sledge has passed - My thoughts are with his family

Percy Sledge, who soared from part-time singer and hospital orderly to lasting fame with his aching, forlorn performance on the classic "When a Man Loves a Woman," died Tuesday in Louisiana. He was 74. Dr. William "Beau" Clark, coroner for East Baton Rouge Parish, confirmed to The Associated Press that Sledge died early Tuesday morning, about an hour after midnight of natural causes in hospice care. Percy Sledge (born November 25, 1941, Leighton, Alabama) is an American R&B and soul performer who recorded the hit "When a Man Loves a Woman" in 1966. Percy Sledge worked in a series of blue-collar jobs in the fields in Leighton, Alabama before taking a job as an orderly at Colbert County Hospital in Sheffield, Alabama. Through the mid 1960s, he toured the Southeast with the Esquires Combo on weekends, while working at the hospital during the week. A former patient and mutual friend of Sledge and record producer Quin Ivy introduced the two. An audition followed, and Sledge was signed to a recording contract. Sledge's soulful voice was perfect for the series of soul ballads produced by Ivy and Marlin Greene, which rock critic Dave Marsh called "emotional classics for romantics of all ages." "When a Man Loves a Woman" was Sledge's first song recorded under the contract, and was released in March 1966. The song's inspiration came when Sledge's girlfriend left him for a modeling career after he was laid off from construction job in late 1965. Because bassist Calvin Lewis and organist Andrew Wright helped him with the song, he gave all the songwriting credits to them. It reached #1 in the U.S. and went on to become an international hit. "When A Man Loves A Woman" was a hit twice in the UK, reaching #6 in 1966 and, on reissue, peaked at #2 in 1987. The song was also the first gold record released by Atlantic Records. The soul anthem became the cornerstone of Sledge's career, and was followed by "Warm and Tender Love" (Covered by UK songstress Elkie Brooks in 1981), "It Tears Me Up", "Take Time to Know Her" (his second biggest U.S. hit, reaching #11 and written by Steve Davis), "Love Me Tender", and "Cover Me". Sledge charted with "I'll Be Your Everything" and "Sunshine" during the 1970s, and has become an international concert favorite throughout the world, especially in the Netherlands, Germany, and on the African continent, and South Africa in particular. Sledge's career enjoyed a renaissance in the 1980s once "When a Man Loves a Woman" re-entered the Top 10 in the UK Singles Chart, peaking at #2, behind the reissued Ben E King classic "Stand By Me", after being used in a Levi's commercial. In 1994, Saul Davis and Barry Goldberg produced his new album, Blue Night, for Philippe Le Bras' Sky Ranch label and Virgin Records. It featured Bobby Womack, Steve Cropper, and Mick Taylor among others. Blue Night received a Grammy nomination for Best Contemporary Blues Album, Vocal or Instrumental, and in 1996 it won the W.C. Handy Award for best soul or blues album. In 2004, Davis and Goldberg also produced the Shining Through the Rain album which led to his induction into the Rock & Roll Hall Of Fame. Songs on the CD were written by Mikael Rickfors, Steve Earle, the Bee Gees, Carla Olson, Denny Freeman, Allan Clarke and Jackie Lomax. In the late 1990s, Michael Bolton brought "When A Man Loves A Woman" back into the limelight again on his smash hit album "Time, Love, & Tenderness." In December, 2010, Rhino Handmade issued a 4 CD retrospective "The Atlantic Recordings" which covers all of the issued Atlantic masters, as well as many of the tracks unissued in the US. What makes this limited edition release frustrating is that many of the mono tracks on discs 2, 3 and 4 have previously been issued in stereo (disc 1 comprises Sledge's first two LPs which were not recorded on stereo equipment). In October 2011 Sledge featured on the Cliff Richard album Soulicious, also appearing live on stage in the tour of the same name, reprising his top hit "When A Man Loves A Woman" as well as dueting with Sir Cliff. Sledge was an inaugural Rhythm and Blues Foundation Pioneer Award honoree in 1989. He won the W.C. Handy Blues Awards in 1996 for best Soul/Blues album of the year with his record Blue Night. In 2005, he was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame. In May 2007, Percy Sledge was inducted into the Louisiana Music Hall of Fame for his contributions to the state's music. Sledge is also an inductee of the Delta Music Museum in Ferriday, Louisiana. In November 2004, Percy Sledge was inducted into the Carolina Beach Music Hall Of Fame. Among the many notable performances of Sledge's career was a cabaret appearance in 2005 alongside Liverpool's infamous "Steam Packet" at The Pumphouse, Albert Dock. 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 favorite band!

Bad Taste Records aertist: Danko Jones - Fire Music - New release review

I just received the newest release, Fire Music, from Danko Jones and it rips! Opening with red hot rocker, Wild Woman, Jones and his band, Rich Knox (drums) and John Calabrese (bass) crank it out. I've been waiting for a release like this since the Distillers broke up and this one hits the spot. Yes, Brody Dalle did just come out with a new release and it's great but this release has the bite that I needed. A driving rocker with the tightness that you only get from a 2 or 3 piece band is here. Jones has a great voice and with a straight up guitar solo and a really cool drum riff, this track is smokin! High energy The Twisting Knife has a great beat and melody and Jones' driving guitar riffs really set it off. Gonna Be A Fight Tonight, possibly my favorite track on the release, really gets you moving with all of the drive of the best rock. With a take no prisoners attitude, this track has teeth. Jones lays his guitar chops on the line slashing his way through the dust. Excellent! Body Bags is a great driver and one that I shouldn't listen to in my car while I'm driving in traffic (it's made for the open road)! This track is packed with a hard punch and great melodic vocals that are hard to ignore. Excellent! Live Forever slows down a little providing a contrast but still with a great rock beat. I've been listening to this release all day and I have to say it's the best rock of this type I've heard in a long time! Do You Wanna Rock has a totally different type of feel with more of a dance feel and "nervous" vocals. Frenzied cowbell and drumming by Knox gives this track it's edge. Getting Into Drugs is a simple rocker with more directed lyrics. It's likely to be popular for radio play. Watch Your Slide kicks it back into high gear with a real train rumble from Knox matched by blazing guitar work from Jones. A great rocker, this track is hot! I Will Break Your Heart is a clearest radio track on the release. Powerful guitar riffs, a solid melody and a driving beat make this an excellent radio track. Piranha kicks it back into overdrive with great guitar, bass and drum power. Jones leads the way with super vocals and grinding guitar riffs. Again, stay away from your gas pedal. This track breathes fire! Wrapping the release is She Ain't Coming Home, a powerful rocker with great lead and backing vocals. A driving drum beat by Knox pushes this track along and Jones lays out a great melodic guitar solo. This is a great closer for a super release..... ah hell. I'm riding top down tonight!

  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”

 

Forty Below Records artist: John Mayall's Bluesbreakers - Live In 1967 - New Release review

I just received the newest release (April 21, 2015) from Forty Below Records, Live in 1967 by John Mayall's Bluesbreakers and it's over the top! Secretly recorded on a one channel reel - to - reel recorder the audio is better than marginal but the musical quality more than makes up for it. This recording has never before been available publicly and records what is in my opinion the finest lineup of Mayall's Bluesbreakers ever... Mayall, Peter Green, John McVie and Mick Fleetwood... yes, that's right... the early beginnings of The Original Fleetwood Mac. Opening with Otis Rush's All Your Love, Green's famous tone is immediately noticeable. This early work by Mayall is credibly noted as the beginning of the acknowledgement by white audiences of blues music in it's newer rock format. This is a great track and finely executed. Brand New Start is a great boogie track with Mayall's vocal/harp leadership. This is a great jam with guitar, harp and keyboard solos. Excellent! Another Rush track, Double Trouble finds Green with his classic riffs. This is so good it hurts. If you love early British blues, this is exceptional. This is where it all comes from! Blues rocker Streamline has a great bass line from McVie and Green steps up with a nicely picked solo. Mayall rolls the organ for a cool solo as well giving the track a balanced feel. On a track made popular by Freddie King, Have You Ever Loved A Woman, Mayall lays out some of his best vocals on the release. As witnessed by many other later runs at this track including Derek and the Dominos (Clapton and Allman), this track is made for stetched out gut gripping guitar solo's and Green doesn't waste a note. This is terrific! Johnny Guitar Watson's Looking Back is a real rocker with Mayall leading the way and Fleetwood pushing hard. Green shows he's not all blues with some great guitar riffs here as well. Another Otis Rush track, So Many Roads, became somewhat of a Mayall classic and this live version only proliferates the legend. Mayall really knows how to squeeze the vocals on this track and Green's blues depth is rattling! Tommy Tucker's Hi Heel Sneakers again is a great track to keep the audience moving and create dynamics from the slower more emotional tracks. Mayall takes a nice organ solo on this track as well. Another Otis Rush track, the ultimate I Can't Quit You Baby (you don't need to look it up, Led Zep recorded it in 68 and released it in 69...this is 1967). Peter Green plays it square and the track retains a lot of Rush's original feel and tension. Listen to those riffs. Excellent! Up next is Freddie King's The Stumble which is always a standard for blues guitar players. Green does a super job of delivering the goods on this extended track and Fleetwood and McVie drive the bottom hard. Very cool! Another King track, Someday After Awhile slows the tempo back down and Mayall belts out the blues. OK, the fidelity isn't great but the expressiveness is unmistakeable. Green steps up again and blows your hair back with grinding guitar riffs that are razor sharp. Excellent! Another Freddie King track, San-Ho-Zay features Green up front and with a run time of over 8 minutes, this track gives Green the chance to explore blues riffs from every angle. Very nice. Wrapping the release is T-Bone Walker's Stormy Monday. One of my all time favorite blues tracks, having been raised on Duane Allman, Green does an excellent job of interpreting this incredible track to it's fullest. (Again before you ask, the Allman's Fillmore was recorded in '71). Mayall has put together an unbelievable set and this band is out of sight. A must have for anyone who loves blues guitar.

 Excellent!!

  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”

 

Omnivore Recordings: Beale Street Saturday Night - Various Artists

I just received the newest release, Beale Street Saturday Night, from Omnivore Recordings and it is raw and pure. Opening with Walkin' Down Beale Street by Sid Selvidge, the listener hears a blend of soul, jazz, blues and gospel with piano, slide guitar and horns. Fred Ford is up next with Hernando Horn, an exceptional old style blues track featuring exceptionally rich sax work. Grandma Dixie Davis, accompanied by piano is freewheelin and loose. No...this isn't Joe Bonamassa. Sleepy John Estes hits the ground running with Big Fat Mama/Liquor Store. Taking a breather in the track to tell the stories. Prince Gabe has a much more polished vocal presentation and again with story telling dialog. Furry Lewis is easily distinguished on Furry's Blues. A classic with Furry accompanying himself on guitar. Teenie Hodges lays down Rock Me Baby, raw and uncompromised. A more primitive version of the track by Alex with whistling and hammer claps like an old work song is exceptional. Thomas Pinkston tells the story Ben Griffin was killed in the Monarch accompanied by piano. Quite cool. Johnny Woods plays the Frisco Blow, a real authentic train blues on harp. Primitive and excellent! Mud Boy And The Neutrons plays a Dixieland style On The Road Again with every sort of instrument imaginable. Very cool! Thomas Pinkston tells the story of Mr Handy Told Me 50 Years Ago with guitar accompaniment. Unique. Furry Lewis is back with Chicken Ain't Nothin' But A Bird. There is hardly a blues player that is half a story teller like Lewis so this is a particularly cool track. Grandma Dixie Davis wraps the release with Roll On Mississippi. Now I do need to say, I've never heard anyone sing like Grandma Dixie Davis. This is an unusual set of tracks put together by James Luther Dickinson is a cool and historical documentation.
Along with the cd you get 5 pages of liner commentary by Stanley Booth, additional descriptives by Jim Lancaster and a number of wonderful photographs.
  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”

 

Cleopatra Records To Release Three Unreleased Live Albums By Blues Rock Legends Canned Heat

Cleopatra Records To Release Three Unreleased Live Albums By Blues Rock Legends Canned Heat
Los Angeles - Cleopatra Records are happy to announce the release of three unreleased live albums by legendary blues rock band Canned Heat! Canned Heat is an American blues/boogie rock band that formed in Los Angeles, California, in 1965. The group has been noted for its own interpretations of blues material as well as for efforts to promote the interest in this type of music and its original artists. It was launched by two blues enthusiasts, Alan Wilson and Bob Hite, who took the name from Tommy Johnson's 1928 “Canned Heat Blues”. After appearances at the Monterey and Woodstock festivals at the end of the 1960s, the band acquired worldwide fame.
Canned Heat with John Lee Hooker - Carnegie Hall 1971 Release date – April 14, 2015
Canned Heat teamed up with blues legend John Lee Hooker for the classic 1971 double album Hooker n' Heat and embarked on a subsequent historic tour together that has been captured here in all its glory!This vintage set shakes and boogies with tons of authentic blues rhythms including the fantastic “Back Door Man” and “Let’s Work Together” as well as the Hooker-led bonus track “Tease Me Baby!” Available on both CD and limited edition green vinyl, and packaged with liner notes by Dave Thompson with a brand new interview by Heat drummer Adolfo “Fito” de la Parra!
1. Framed 2. Let’s Work Together 3. Hey Babe 4. Shake ‘n’ Boogie 5. Back Door Man BONUS TRACK 6. Tease Me Baby

Purchase the digital version on iTunes: http://geni.us/CHandJLHCarnegie71digi

Purchase the CD: http://geni.us/CHandJLHCarnegie71CD

Purchase the LP: http://geni.us/CHandJLHCarnegie71LP

Canned Heat - Stockholm 1973 Release date - May 12, 2015
A very special never before released concert that features the revered post-Alan Wilson Heat line-up including vocalist Bob “The Bear” Hite, guitar Henry “The Sunflower” Vestine, drummer Adolfo “Fito” La Parra, guitarist James Shane, bassist Richard Hite, and keyboardist Ed Beyer!
1. Let’s Work Together 2. On The Road Again 3. Harley Davidson Blues 4. Election Blues 5. So Long Wrong 6. Shake ‘n’ Boogie 7. Goodbye For Now

Pre-order the CD: http://geni.us/CHStockholm73CD

Pre-order the LP: http://geni.us/CHStockholm73LP

The third Canned Heat release Illinois Blues 1973 will be released July 7, 2015!
Canned Heat official website: http://www.cannedheatmusic.com/

LARRY CAMPBELL & TERESA WILLIAMS’ DEBUT out June 23 on Red House

LARRY CAMPBELL & TERESA WILLIAMS’ DEBUT HONED AT LEVON HELM’S MIDNIGHT RAMBLES  OUT JUNE 23 ON RED HOUSE   Listen to "Surrender to Love" at Wall Street Journal: http://on.wsj.com/1xyRU5a In-demand guitarist/producer and singer for Dylan, Simon, Lesh, Crow, Harris, Staples, and more

On June 23, two of the most in-demand artists in roots music, Larry Campbell and Teresa Williams, will take center stage with their self-titled debut album on Red House Records. After decades of marriage and seven years working closely with Levon Helm - Campbell as bandleader and producer (winning three Grammys for his work) and wife Williams as singer - their first album together features eight originals and three covers honed at Helm's legendary Midnight Rambles.   "It was the most pure musical experience I've ever had," Campbell says of their time with Helm. "It gave me the template for how to make music for the rest of my life: no egos, no agenda, no petty stuff. I got inspired to write more songs for Teresa and me to sing."   After Levon’s 2012 passing, they grieved, celebrated his life, and got to work finishing "Larry Campbell and Teresa Williams." They had the tunes, and, with drummer (and ace recording engineer) Justin Guip and Ramble Band member Byron Isaacs on bass, they had an ass-kicking, road-worthy band. Additionally, the lovefest of guests on Larry Campbell and Teresa Williams sweetened the pot considerably: Amy Helm’s voice melding with Larry and Teresa’s on the gorgeous Grateful Dead hymn “Attics Of My Life,” Little Feat keyboardist Bill Payne’s rollicking touch on several tracks, and Levon himself appearing on “You’re Running Wild,” a tune made famous by the Louvin Brothers, now given an Orbison touch (originally recorded during Levon’s Dirt Farmer sessions). Finally, it all dovetailed into place.   In addition to Helm, Campbell and Williams have played with a Who's Who of Music Icons: Bob Dylan (Rolling Stone called Larry's eight-year tenure "the greatest period of the Never Ending Tour"), Paul Simon, Phil Lesh, Emmylou Harris, Sheryl Crow, Keith Richards, Cyndi Lauper, Hot Tuna and Mavis Staples. In addition to his Grammy wins with Helm, Campbell has won the Lifetime Achievement Award (2008) and Instrumentalist of the Year Award (2013) from the Americana Music Association.   With Larry Campbell and Teresa Williams, this duo not only brings a lot to the table, they bring the table itself – plus the house, the still, the church, the marriage bed, the sawdust-covered floor, and abiding, unconditional love, all carried in two voices harmonizing across hills, hollers, porches, and fire escapes. Those close harmonies ride atop music made in a mountain refuge, far from the madding crowd, connected to a spirit that lives on in song.      Campbell and Williams will tour the country this spring and summer, including two New York shows before album release (4/8 at Rockwood and 5/18 at City Winery) and a two-day stand at Phil Lesh's Terrapin Crossroads in San Francisco (6/18-9). See current dates below (more TBA).   'Larry Campbell and Teresa Williams' Track Listing: 01. Surrender to Love 02. Bad Luck Charm 03. Another One More Time 04. Down on My Knees 05. You're Running Wild 06. Everybody Loves You 07. Did You Love Me At All 08. Ain't Nobody For Me 09. Midnight Highway 10. Keep Your Lamp Trimmed and Burning 11. Attics of My Life Tour Dates: * w/ Phil Lesh ! w/ Hot Tuna 5/09 - Woodstock, NY @ Levon Helm Studios (Midnight Ramble) 5/18 - New York, NY @ City Winery 6/06-7 - Hunter, NY @ Mountain Jam Fest 6/12 - Marlboro, NY @ Falcon 6/13 - Amagansett, NY @ Stephen Talkhouse 6/18 - San Rafael, CA @ Terrapin Crossroads * 6/19 - San Rafael, CA @ Terrapin Crossroads 6/26 - Saratoga Springs, NY @ Caffe Lena 6/27 - Katonah, NY @ Caramoor Roots Fest 7/10 - Plymouth, NH @ Flying Monkey ! 7/11 - Beverly, MA @ Cabot Theater ! 7/12 - Truro, MA @ Payomet PAC !

Ironing Board Sam's Return (short documentary)

Long lost soul man Ironing Board Sam is the subject of a 25-minute documentary. Sam's got an incredible story, from playing the TV show Soul Train in 1965 to Jimi Hendrix sitting in with his band around then; from playing Jazz Fest while submerged in a tank of water in 1979 to inventing the keytar (really). The Music Maker Relief Foundation recently found him and he moved to Hillsborough, NC. The former New Orleanian is returning to Jazz Fest this year. It's inspiring, touching, and full of incredible soul music from the '60s to today.

  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”

 
Ironing Board Sam's Return (short documentary) from Tom Ciaburri on Vimeo.

The Blues Rebels- Open Road - New Release review

I just received the newest release, Open Road from the Blues Rebels and it's title is spot on. Blues artists Andy Watts (guitars) and Dov Hammer (vocals/harp), together with Avi Barak on drums and Amos Springer on bass make up the blues rebels. Opening with boogie track, All I Want,the Rebels establish a gritty take no prisoners attitude with a solid bottom, a driving guitar rhythm and solid vocals with Dov and Andy trading hot licks on harp and guitar. Very cool! Before The Jubilee has a real poppy sound with a catchy tune but I particularly like the hot guitar riffs at the end. Driving rocker, Seen The Light, has a steady rhythm and warm harp additions. Devil By My Side is a smokey boogie with a great bass line. Dov maintains the lead throughout with some creative harp riffs. Turn Back The Clock has a R&B feel with another cool bass line from Springer. Vocal harmonies on this track give it a more polished feel that may appeal commercially. What If is slower paced, constructed over the bones of a pop format. Watts takes a nice guitar solo in this track complimented by Hammer on harp. Reason To Live has a bit of western styling with guitar strumming and wind swept harp soloing. Very nice! Don't Want You Back is a nice blues based rocker with a cooker of a groove. Watts and Hammer both take nice stretches on this track. One of my favorite tracks on the release. Ballad, Looking In, opens with a sorrowful harp riff and is followed by smooth vocal harmonies. This track reminds me of Marshall Tucker Band in structure. Watts lays down a cool solo on this track and Hammer carries melody on harp when he breaks from vocals. Boogie track, Secret Smile, really grinds it down and Hammer cooks on harp. Yes he does. Living The Dream has a bright but cocky strut. I Don't Mind has a lighter jazzy feel with vocal harmonies and a catchy sound. This track catches a nice wave reminding me of some of the sounds that Savoy Brown used to get on some of their jams. Very nice! Trying To Get Paid is a jazzy shuffle track. Hammer takes his nicest run on harp on this track with the band keeping a tight track behind him. His vocals are also nicely suited for this style of music. Watts takes a crisp solo on this track as well but overall always remaining contained. Wrapping the release is title track, Open Road, with Matan Ashkenazy on Fender Rhodes piano and Hammer on harp. This is a really clean instrumental ballad with Watts' screaming guitar riffs taking center stage. Excellent completion to an 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”