Momo Records artist: Rachelle Coba - Mother Blues - New Release Review

I just received the newest release, Mother Blues from Rachelle Coba and it's a very interesting first effort on the part of this fine singer/songwriter/guitarist. Opening with Never Been To Memphis, Coba kicks up her heels in a country pop manner with balanced vocal and guitar mix. Ain't Got Time (To Fall In Love), is up next with a soul flavor. Showing strong possibilities as a radio track I would certainly compare it favorably with the work of Susan Tedeschi. Worried Blues is a fusion of blues and light jazz as you might hear from Robben Ford and not only nicely showcases Coba's fine vocals but also some pretty stylistic guitar riffs. Between The Tracks has a quiet ballad feel with clean articulate guitar work and firm drum work from Karl T Himmel. Jacob Webb lays down some really sweet bass lines on this track and Jerry Hahn also adds some nice lead guitar work. Chicago has a bit of a rag beat to it looking back at some of the more old style blues players. The cool repeating little guitar riff sets this track off. A more soulful attack on the solo guitar work on this track is a cool contrast against the acoustic picking which outlines the track. Telephone Song gets down and dirty with hot snappy electric guitar riffs complimenting Coba's finest vocals on the release. Title track, Mother Blues is a rambling shuffle track with an nice extended guitar solo. A Man Like You is a quiet understated shuffle track with nice guitar punctuation. David M Santos carries a nice bass line on this track leading to a smooth guitar solo by Coba. View From Here has a lot of the characteristics or older blues/spiritual tracks. This is a tight little number with mostly guitar chords and vocal. Nice. Let Your Love Shine, wrapping the release, has a nice funky bottom by Himmel on drums and Jason Webb on bass. Ray Murry adds warmth with organ on this piece but it's really strong writing, a great beat, ideal vocals and stinging guitar work that makes this my favorite on the release.

 “Like” Bman’s Facebook page. I use Facebook to spread the word about my blog (Now with translation in over 50 languages). I will not hit you with 50 posts a day. I will not relay senseless nonsense. I use it only to draw attention to some of the key posts on my blog each day. In this way I can get out the word on new talent, venues and blues happenings! - click Here

 

Ventura County Blues Festival

General Admission tickets: Presale $20 (Limited Time Only) $30 at Gate Kids 12 and under are FREE with paid Adult VIP Tickets: $100 (Online Only) all ages For ticket info CLICK HERE!

Record Store Day 2014 Update From Varèse Sarabande Records

From Varèse Sarabande Records and Universal Music Distribution

Due to unforeseen manufacturing issues the Genesis vinyl album From Genesis To Revelation will, unfortunately, not be ready to ship in time for this year’s Record Store Day.  Varese has been working diligently with our manufacturer Erika Records to resolve the problem. While checking test pressings in quality control, both of us found points that did not meet with either of our production standards.
 

Fortunately, the album will be available to release for Black Friday in the fall. 

This is the first time this album will be available on vinyl since its original U.S. release in 1974. The album features the original multi-platinum-selling core Genesis line-up of Mike Rutherford, Tony Banks, Anthony Phillips, and Peter Gabriel.

Provogue Records artist: Walter Trout - The Blues Came Callin' - New Release Review

I just received the newest release (June 10, 2014), The Blues Came Callin', from Walter Trout and it is nothing short of super. This release, marking Trout's 25th anniversary as a solo artist is a nice addition to his catalog. Opening with blues rocker Wastin' Away, Walter and his troupes sound tight and ready to rock. A slight melodic tip to Humble Pie's I Don't Need No Doctor, Walter sings I Feel Like I'm Wasting Away as he fires up his strat like a flame thrower. The World Is Going Crazy (And So Am I) has a rhythm putting me in mind of The Shape I'm In (The Band) but Trout is nothing about that laid back country rock stuff and much more about the hot running blues. Stepping up again he shows that there is no loss of imagination or feel. The Bottom Of The River opens with acoustic guitar/resonator guitar work. Developing a heavy bottom and with the addition of harp, the intensity slowly grows until Trout is full out on electric guitar. Take A Little Time is a sweet shuffle track with nice boogie piano under the melody. A Chuck Berry/Keith Richards like guitar solo crowns this track and it's really a lot of fun. The Whale is a straight up rocker with hot blues riffs. Willie is a smokin' boogie track with screaming harp and Trout playing in tandem. This is one of the hottest tracks on the release. Mayall's Piano Boogie is a cool track of course featuring strong piano work in front. Trout lays back in the wings as the melody develops stepping up with slick Texas style guitar riffs. Very nice! Bound to be one of the most popular tracks on the release, Born In The City, has a solid slung blues pace directed by a solid bass line (like Fool For Your Stockings). Trout really takes over on this track with crisp vocals and the best guitar riffs on the release. Instrumental Texas shuffle, Tight Shoes has a SRV swagger and Trout really knows how to walk the walk. This is an excellent track and one that definitely see strong airplay for the right reasons. Title track, The Blues Came Callin', is born out of the sound of John Lee Hooker even featuring some traditional Hooker riffs. All electric, all the time, John Mayall takes a nice walk on the keys leading up to one of the fiercest solo's on a Trout release in a while. This is Trout swinging his axe at his best. Hard Time is a blues rocker with a light funky twist. Trout really hits a cool slot on this track. Egged on by a funky drum beat, Trout holds back using rhythmic dynamics rather than faster fingering. Very nice. Wrapping the release is another slower blues track along the lines of "Help Me". Nobody Moves Me Like You Do has a modified bass line built over this classic blues vamp and it's terrific. Again Trout holds back and allows the track to breathe as he sings the melody with only small licks of fire. Then he slowly lets out the leash and lets the big dog eat. If you love blues and want to hear Trout play fine explosive but spontaneous blues guitar solos, this is a great opportunity.

 I suspect if you have been following my report of even a casual fan of the blues you know that Walter is battling liver disease. This release was recorded throughout 2013 and is finally ready to hit the road running. here's well wishes that Walter is soon on the road to recovery.
Currently in production and scheduled to be shown in the summer, the exclusive documentary features Walter talking in depth about his life and music. Also featured in the documentary are many of the people who influenced Trout personally and professionally. To coincide with the release of the album, Provogue Records has orchestrated an extensive concert tour, a collectible re-issue limited edition vinyl series, and a book biography. "The Blues Came Callin'" will be available on 180 gram vinyl, CD, and as a limited edition CD/DVD combo. The DVD will contain a 2014 full-length documentary about Walter Trout.

 Walter is currently hospitalized and in urgent need of a liver transplant! Walter has been battling severe liver disease bravely for the past many months. He has continued touring and recording until a few weeks ago - he loves playing for people, and it has been the best medicine for him. We were given hope that medicinal treatment could reverse his condition but we now know that this hasn't worked. His liver has failed, and doctors say his survival depends on receiving a transplant. He is at UCLA in and out of Intensive Care, which is a prime facility for liver transplants. Walter has health insurance but this will not cover the full cost of his treatment. The medical expenses, co-pay, medication, after-care, etc. are going to be immense. Walter will need to cancel much of the tour planned for 2014 leaving him and his family with little income. By helping support this effort, you can help give Walter peace of mind and focus solely on his health and recovery before, during and after the transplant. The timeline is uncertain at this point. Waiting for a suitable liver donor in the hospital can be a lengthy and costly process of many weeks or even months. There will be considerable cost for rehabilitation, re-training and physical therapy post-surgery Quote From Walter's Wife Marie: "Thank you for coming here and sending your love towards Walter. It means the world to him and to me to feel surrounded with your love and prayers at this difficult time. Walter has lost 100 pounds and most of his muscle tissue in the past year, and suffered much pain. It has been heart wrenching to watch him go through this. He has tried to put on a brave face for us all - he has kept playing, composing, singing, touring, and recording because music and communicating through music has always been his life line.. But he has reached the point, where he is too sick to stand up or even hold a guitar. Thank you again on Walter's behalf for your love and support." - See more at: http://www.youcaring.com/medical-fundraiser/walter-trout-needs-a-new-liver-you-can-help-/151911

“Like” Bman’s Facebook page. I use Facebook to spread the word about my blog (Now with translation in over 50 languages). I will not hit you with 50 posts a day. I will not relay senseless nonsense. I use it only to draw attention to some of the key posts on my blog each day. In this way I can get out the word on new talent, venues and blues happenings! - click Here

 

Swedish rockers H.E.A.T announce four UK concerts

The long-awaited new studio album
"Tearing Down The Walls"
Released on April 14th, 2014 via earMUSIC

Featuring the new single "A Shot At Redemption" taken from
the same titled 4-track EP - released February 14th, 2014

"What can you say about H.E.A.T? If you don't like these energetic Swedes you must be dead inside, as this year they've shown the UK crowd how to be the most complete band on the planet." - Classic Rock Magazine

April 14th, 2014 sees the UK release of the long awaited new studio album "Tearing Down The Walls" by Swedish rock band H.E.A.T via earMUSIC.  
Once again the band decided the move into Bohus Studio with Grammy-award winning producer Tobias Lindell and created an explosive, fresh sound.
The first sneak peak of the album is the lead single "A Shot At Redemption". It confirms all that H.E.A.T showed before and more: a catchy hookline, a driven beat, the obligatory guitar solo and the raw, beyond comparison vocals of singer Erik Grönwall.

Photo Credit: © Gustaf Sandholm Andersson

"A Shot At Redemption" will be released digitally as part of a 4-track EP on February 14th, 2014 via earMUSIC.
Added on top to the "A Shot At Redemption" EP are the previously unreleased "Under Your Skin", a goosebumps worthy acoustic version of H.E.A.T's "In And Out Of Trouble" and a sensual cover of one of the greatest ballads, "She"s Like The Wind".
Four songs to enjoy the energetic and explosive side of H.E.A.T and their great talent for ballads, to ease the wait for the very anticipated new studio album.
"Tearing Down The Walls" – their brand new studio work – is the follow-up to the successful "Address The Nation" which was praised by media worldwide as one of the best album's in 2012 and consolidated the band's reputation as the new leading band in hard edged melodic rock.
H.E.A.T had a huge hit in Scandinavia with the song "1000 Miles" in 2009 and the band's 2nd Album, "Freedom Rock" was nominated as one of the Top 50 albums in 2010 by Classic Rock Magazine UK. Since then, they have been touring all over the world, convincing everyone with their powerful performance.

Photo Credit: © Gustaf Sandholm Andersson

In a moment when artists like Foreigner, Journey and Whitesnake are enjoying a second youth, when teenagers are re-discovering the melodic approach to hard rock which these artists have mastered and when proudly wearing their logo on T-shirts all of a sudden turned "hip", when classic hard rock songs are again in the single charts and among the most downloaded … – H.E.A.T is the hope for carrying this genre to the future. They are young, ambitious and full of energy.
H.E.A.T's music is not a revival, and it's not nostalgic. Still … it's by far the best you can have today if you love "classic rock" or "AOR" … or more simply if you think that rock music means energy, great songs, and the ambition to be on top of the world.

Photo Credit: © Gustaf Sandholm Andersson

H.E.A.T – UK TOUR DATES 2014

To dovetail the April 14th release of their new album “Tearing Down The Walls”, Swedish rockers H.E.A.T have announced they will play four UK concerts in May:

London Garage Newcastle O2 Academy 2 Glasgow Cathouse Manchester Academy 3

Friday 16th May Saturday 17th May Sunday 18th May Monday 19th May

Tickets for all four concerts are can be ordered from the official H.E.A.T website.
The follow-up H.E.A.T’s 2012 critically acclaimed album Address The Nation, "Tearing Down The Walls" was recorded at Bohus Studios with Grammy-award winning producer Tobias Lindell. The first single to be taken from the new album is A Shot At Redemption.
A new double A-side single "Tearing Down The Walls" / "Mannequin Show" will be released on Monday April 14th; to coincide with the release of the new album.

H.E.A.T line-up

Erik Grönwall - Vocals
Eric Rivers - Guitar
Jimmy Jay - Bass
Jona Tee - Keyboards
Crash - Drums

"A Shot At Redemption" EP Tracklist

1. A Shot At Redemption
2. Under Your Skin
3. In And Out Of Trouble (Acoustic)
4. She's Like The Wind

H.E.A.T – Biography

Over the last seven years H.E.A.T has established themselves as the young leading band in the melodic rock scene, both in their homeland Sweden and internationally. They have toured and performed in front of thousands and thousands of fans around the world.
It all started in early 2007 when H.E.A.T was born out of the ashes of two other bands. They began to write songs and started to play every show they could get their hands on. It resulted in a fan base in Sweden and whispers of a new rising star began to radiate abroad.
A few months later a record deal was signed and the first major gigs, as support to the likes of Toto and Mustasch were made.
In April 2008, their self titled debut album was released and became a massive vitamin injection for the genre and instantly received accolades from both fans and critics worldwide. The release was followed up by immense touring and H.E.A.T played with bands such as Alice Cooper, Thin Lizzy and on big festivals like Sweden Rock Festival.
By January 2009, an exciting year in the H.E.A.T history began. First in line was a five week European tour supporting German greats Edguy followed by the Swedish qualifiers for the Eurovision song contest with the song ‘1000 Miles’ which became a huge hit in Sweden. The first album was re-released bundled with the ‘1000 Miles’ single and touring began all over Sweden.
In late 2009, H.E.A.T entered the studio to begin the recordings of the follow-up “Freedom Rock”. The album was released in May 2010. During the recordings, H.E.A.T began to grow a slight distance to singer Kenny Leckremo. After a tour in England in spring 2010, H.E.A.T and Kenny parted ways.
Determined to not let the band fade into history, the band began the search for a new singer. More than 200 applications came in.
During this time the band got in touch with “Swedish Idol” winner Erik Grönwall who was asked to do a stand-in gig in Sweden. He had to decline due to a busy solo career schedule, although the seed of him becoming singer of a successful rock band had been planted. A couple of weeks later, Jimmy met Erik at a release party and asked him straight forward if at all he was interested in joining. A meeting was set up and hours after the meeting Erik decided that his destiny was within H.E.A.T.
The band instantly began writing songs for what would become their third album, “Address the Nation”. A new record deal with GAIN/Sony Music was signed and together they chose which songs to record from a total of about 30 songs. Through their new label they got in touch with Grammy award winning producer Tobias Lindell and the legendary “Studio Bohus” in Gothenburg. They felt that this truly is the man to deliver the sound of H.E.A.T in the future.  
 “Address the Nation” was released in March 2012 worldwide with the epic song ‘Living on the Run’ as the vanguard. A lot of touring and hard work began for the guys and 2012 turned out to be a great year in the H.E.A.T history. They played in every corner of Sweden, including shows at mighty Sweden Rock Festival and Skogsröjet. They played big TV shows and got nominated for a Rockbjörn-award, a big and prestigious award in Sweden. H.E.A.T also recorded their first two music videos, one for ‘Living on the Run’, and one for ‘It’s All About Tonight’.
"What can you say about H.E.A.T? If you don't like these energetic Swedes you must be dead inside, as this year they've shown the UK crowd how to be the most complete band on the planet." - Classic Rock Magazine
The Address the Nation circus continued in 2013 and the guys loaded their guns and headed out to conquer Europe. With 10 headline shows in Germany, England and Spain, they proved to the European crowd that they were a top class live act.
In the summer of 2013 H.E.A.T played festivals in Germany with bands like Journey, Whitesnake and Europe and played at the legendary festival Firefest in England. This, together with H.E.A.T breaking new ground in the far east of China with a 10 date tour and the Rockalies-festival in France, marked the end of the Adress the Nation-era and the start of something new...
Despite these hectic two years, the guys still managed to keep the song writing going and in August of 2013, the guys once again entered Studio Bohus with producer Tobias Lindell to record their fourth album entitled: "Tearing Down the Walls".
With this album H.E.A.T has once again created a great hard rock album with the right blend of melodic and heavy songs. Singer Erik Grönwall about the title:
“Tearing down the walls is about breaking free from your mental walls that are holding you back. Go out there and try new things, don’t let yourself be your own worst enemy. Tear down the walls.”
“Tearing down the Walls” is released April 11th, with the EP “A Shot at Redemption” marking the start in mid-February.
They kick off the tour playing in Madrid with Scorpions in March and 2014 looks like the best year for H.E.A.T so far.

H.E.A.T - Official Website | earMUSIC - Official Website

earMUSIC - Official YouTube | earMUSIC - Official Facebook

 

PEACH & The Blues All-Stars Headline Biscuits & Blues

PEACH & THE BLUES ALL-STARS HEADLINE PREMIERE VENUE BISCUITS & BLUES IN SAN FRANCISCO - FRIDAY, APRIL 25

(SAN FRANCISCO, CA) - PEACH & The Blues All-Stars make their San Francisco performing debut, headlining Biscuits & Blues, 401 Mason St., on Friday, April 25. 2 shows: 7:30 p.m. and 10:00 p.m. $20. Info: (415) 292-2583 or http://www.biscuitsandblues.com.   This begins a busy touring and performing season for the award-winning guitarist-vocalist, who also is a headliner at the Untapped Brews & Blues Festival in Kennewick, WA on May 10.   PEACH - recently interviewed on America's Blues Radio - is at the forefront of female-fronted blues acts performing both modern and old-time blues, with an All-Star band of musicians featuring keyboardist Ken Stange (Joe Cocker); guitarist Jamie James (Steppenwolf, Kingbees); bassist Del Atkins (James Ingram, Pointer Sisters); and drummer Tom Walsh (America, Joe Cocker, Supertramp). In the recent past PEACH has recorded with Taj Mahal, Marty Grebb (The Buckinghams), Reggie McBride (Elton John), Joey Delgado (Delgado Brothers), Garth Hudson (The Band) and Paul Barrere (LIttle Feat). She has co-written with Keb' Mo' and Marty Grebb and is a past Los Angeles Music Awards, Rockwired Radio Awards, All Access Magazine Music Awards, and South Bay Music Awards recipient.      "PEACH has done a duet with Taj Mahal, co-wrote a song with Keb' Mo' and uses her decades of experience to bring real blues to her audience. Her kind spirit and passion make for a unique blend of Blues artist." - INFLUX MAGAZINE.

www.peach.us https://www.facebook.com/PeachBluesBand?fref=ts

Al Basile Delivers a Jolt of Bluff City Soul on His New CD, "Woke Up in Memphis," Coming May 20 on Sweetspot Records

Al Basile Delivers a Jolt of Bluff City Soul on His New CD, Woke Up in Memphis,

Coming May 20 on Sweetspot Records

Latest Disc by Former Roomful of Blues Alumnus Features Special Guests Duke Robillard, Rich Lataille, Doug James and Sista Monica Parker

RUMFORD, RI – Al Basile announces a May 20 release date for Woke Up in Memphis, the new CD from the singer/songwriter/cornetist and former member of Roomful of Blues, on Sweetspot Records, with distributtion by City Hall Records. Produced by Basile’s lifelong friend and musical collaborator Duke Robillard, who adds his trademark guitar sounds throughout, Woke Up in Memphis is also fueled by a dynamite horn section that includes Basile, current Roomful tenor sax player Rich Lataille and former member Doug James on baritone sax, along with Mark Teixeira on drums and percussion, Bruce Bears on keyboards, Brad Hallen on electric bass and special guest vocalist Sista Monica Parker.

Acclaimed not only for his sweet cornet playing, but also his literate blues songwriting, Al Basile lays down a groove of 14 originals on the new CD that sound as if they’d be right at home on a Stax or Hi Records session in the 1960s, but with a contemporary feel that makes them vital. With song titles such as “Don't Make Me Beg,” “When Things Get Tough (the Tough Get Things),” “Saved by the Blues,” “Too Tough,” “Big Like Elvis” and the title track, fans of roots music will feel like they “Woke Up in Memphis” from the moment the first sounds emanate out of the speakers.

Celebrating 15 years on his own Sweetspot label, Woke Up in Memphis is Al Basile's tenth solo CD, collecting 14 of his new songs inspired by classic ‘60s Memphis musical styles: soul, R&B, and gospel. The new album builds on the success of his last recording, At Home Next Door, which reached the number 12 spot on the Living Blues airplay chart and earned Al his third Blues Music Award nomination. It mixes secular lyrics with the first of Al's gospel songs to appear on one of his releases, a duet with Sista Monica Parker on the powerful “Make a Little Heaven.”

At Home Next Door drew universal kudos for its inspired mix of blues, soul, and R&B sounds. “Al is a complete master of music, of many genres,” said Blues Underground Network, “but I am telling you right now, that I really enjoyed the wonderful potpourri of musical styles … Al has exactly what it takes to capture your attention, regardless of what musical genres you prefer.”

“Basile is a great songwriter with a great musical feel for presenting a song, and he is backed by a terrific band that has played with him for nearly 25 years,” wrote Sunday Night Blues Project in its review. “I think this is the best music Basile has made so far in his career--his ease and strength as a vocal storyteller continues to grow with each release, and his cornet playing is rich, nuanced, and succinct.”

“Al Basile has raised his profile considerably over the past few years. His past four discs have charted in the Top 15 on the Living Blues airplay charts and he’s been nominated for multiple BMA’s as Best Horn Player. This retrospective/new release should raise his profile even more, showcasing his versatility as a songwriter, singer, and musician.” -  Bluesbytes

“I haven't heard the phrase ‘blue-eyed soul’ in a while, but I suppose it applies here. A consummate professional, Basile does what he does with feeling and intelligence, and he makes you want to come back for more.” - Rambles.net

For more information, visit www.albasile.com.

Hale's Pleasure Railway - Southpaw Steel 'n' Twang - New Release Review

I just received a new release, Hale's Pleasure Railway from Southpaw Steel 'n' Twang and it's really an eclectic blast! Opening with Open Field, Ville Leppanen plays some distinctively American country style pedal steel guitar riffs over jazz grass riffs on guitar. Joined by Tero Mikkonen on drums and JP Monkkonen on bass, these guys have concocted a formula that really successfully blends country, jazz, blues and bluegrass sounds in an exciting way. Bayou, again with pedal steel lead has a bit of muted strings and jazz fusion funk sounds. This is a great track. Alternating between picking and slide is a cool effect for this all instrumental track. Secret Sunset has a distinctively Hawaiian sound even including ukulele. Ville breaks away from the solid Hawaiian slide work and picks a bit giving the track texture but this thing is all tropical. Bad Alley has a beautiful classical (electric) intro before entering into a modern take on swamp blues and gypsy jazz with tremelo chords (think Les Paul style). Ville plays harmonics on guitar over a nice bass lead by Monkkonen. This is an enchanting and tactile track. Excellent! Butterscotch breaks into straight bebop jazz (with hints of country riffs). Excellent lead work from Ville on electric guitar coasting along on the drum work of Mikkonen and Monkkonen on bass make this another must hear. Title track, Steel 'n' Twang, takes a venture away from this guitar laden for a track backed by handclaps (percussion) and vocals by Ville and Jukka Haikonen. Cool. Red is an extremely well composed guitar lullaby. With soothing guitar sounds and light drum work, Ville plays a very nice baritone guitar solo. This may not have the pyrotechnics of Jeff Beck (but it doesn't need it), one of my personal favorite fusion players, but this is really masterfully done. The Game has a twin guitar lead with 6 string and pedal steel. Over a rocky beat by Mikkonen and tight bass work by Monkkonen this track has a nice groove. Stepping up into the heavier zone but still maintaining the fusion feel Dark C is a hot track. It's hard to compare (appropriately) any of my favorite artists but when trying to describe what I hear, think J Beck, Pete Carr, Mahavishnu, King Crimson, Trey Gunn, with a new twist. Feather Weather shows a solid return to classic 40's style slide jazz work. Jukka Haikonen adds organ on this track keeping the track light and bouncy. Wrapping the release is Still, a quiet steel guitar led ballad with minor hints of progressiveness. If you are at all open minded and love guitar music, this is a release that I highly recommend. These guys have really put together a fine piece of 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”

 

Luther Dickinson - Rock 'n Roll Blues

LUTHER DICKINSON

Rock 'n Roll Blues

Dear Music Lovers — You all know Luther Dickinson from the North Mississipi Allstars — the world-boogie power trio that has been touring the world and breaking down barriers for more than a decade now.  You may also know Luther from his work with the South Memphis String Band, or his two Grammy-nominated solo albums. New West Records has just released Luther's latest, ROCK 'n ROLL BLUES.  Luther describes it as "folk country punk blues."  It's acoustic guitar, upright bass, drums and vocals, recorded directly to 8-track tape at Zebra Ranch, the Dickinson family studio in Coldwater, Mississippi.  Helping out are celebrated Memphis actress/singer-songwriter Amy Lavere (bass, vocals), Otha Turner's granddaughter Sharde Thomas (drums, fife, vocals), and longtime cohort Lightning Malcolm (bass, drums). By the way, these drums are just drums — there is not a cymbal on the entire record! Anyone who knows anything about Jim Dickinson and his sons understands that the mark of the rebel is deeply embedded in their DNA.  When Luther and Cody Dickinson produced the first North Mississippi Allstars album in 2000, they took traditional hill country blues, amped it up, gave it a mighty twist to the left, and proceeded to demolish what was left of any pigeonholes people had in mind for them.  Luther has always created music from his heart, without trying to fit into a mold or cater to anyone else’s expectations.  ROCK 'n ROLL BLUES is a superb and timely addition to Luther’s musical canon, rolling up the punk rock exuberance of his early years and the blues and folk music traditions that are his birthright into a careening autobiographical album, full of wit, irony, and joy. Needless to say, this album covers a lot of ground stylistically. For those of you looking for BLUES CONTENT, may I suggest: Track 3: YARD MAN It's a finger-picked country blues reminiscent of Sid Selvidge and Jimmie Rodgers, telling the story of a musician who is not inclined to cut the overgrown lawn, no matter what his old lady says:  "I ain't no yard man, ain't no yard man's son / Got a pocket full-a money, she won't pay to get it done / Bought a ridin' lawn mower, the dirty sumbitch won't run..." Track 1: VANDALIZE This is pure Juke Joint Punk Blues, with Luther rocking the one-string coffee can Diddley Bo. It also has the distinction of being his 4-year-old daughter's favorite song. Track 5: MOJO MOJO The hypnotic, marching groove of MOJO MOJO features Sharde Thomas singing background vocals and playing the cane fife that belonged to her grandather, the late, great Otha Turner. To hear and/or buy the album, CLICK the links below: STREAM ON YOUTUBE BUY THE CD BUY ON ITUNES BUY VINYL Luther is currently on tour with Southern Soul Assembly, which features Luther Dickinson, Anders Osborne, JJ Grey (of MOFRO), and Marc Broussard — see tour dates below.  Thanks and Best To All,   — Richard Rosenblatt      Vizzable Music / VizzTone label group

Release date 3/18/2014

some early press.. Rollicking, raw and teeming with palpable punk energy one minute, laid back and burning with the tranquil beauty of a southern sunset ...Made with just acoustic guitar, vocals, stand-up bass and drums, the album of acoustic punk country blues offers a side of Luther seldom seen before.     — New Releases Now The music on Luther’ Dickinson’s Rock and Roll Blues is every bit as earthy and organic as its cover art would suggest- a guitar planted in an expanse of verdant countryside. Teeming with the spontaneity of the moment, the album is a series of pithy vignettes extracted from every phase of this not-so-young man’s life, back before he formed the North Mississippi Allstars carrying on through his current state as a family man and musician working regularly on a diverse roster of projects...  Its subdued acoustic textures markedly different than the cauterizing electricity of The North Mississippi Allstars’ World Boogie is Coming, Rock and Roll Blues nevertheless vividly demonstrates the maturation process of the committed but fun-loving musician that is Luther Dickinson, wholly and completely of a piece with previous solo endeavors such as Onward and Upward as well as Hambone’s Meditations.     — Glide Luther Dickinson's new solo album, Rock 'n Roll Blues, will be released March 18 on New West Records. Made with just acoustic guitar, vocals, stand up bass and drums, the album of self described "folk punk country blues" offers a side of Luther seldom seen before. From the propulsive beat and unbridled sound of opener "Vandalize" to the rambunctious acoustic strut and barbed chorus hook of "Bar Band," which relives Luther's dues-paying youth playing battles of the bands and plastering Memphis with concert flyers to "Blood 'n Guts," chronicling the transience of a life spent in a van driving from one gig to the next, it's clear this is a unique chapter in the acclaimed Southern musician's songbook.      — Guitar Player In this climate of over produced, slicked up Americana, Dickinson’s dialed down approach is charming, rustic, uncluttered and delivered with the honesty of a guy who wouldn’t know how to do it any other way.     — Hal Horowitz, American Songwriter Because a lot of great songs have been written about the crossroads, but none of 'em cover what happens next quite like this: "Got the busted eardrum, bad news baby, bloodsuckin' bed bug, rock 'n roll blues."     — Andy Langer: The Best Songs Of March 2014 - Esquire

TOUR DATES with SOUTHERN SOUL ASSEMBLY Apr 05 • T Bois Blues Festival 2014 • Cut Off, LA Apr 07 • Texas Union Ballroom • Austin, TX Apr 08 • House Of Blues • Boston, MA Apr 09 • Concert Hall, Norwalk City Hall • Norwalk, CT Apr 10 • The Grand Opera House • Wilmington, DE Apr 12 • Howard Theatre • Washington, DC

LutherDickinson.com

NewWestRecords.com

facebook.com/lutherdickinson

instagram.com/lutherdickinson

Steve Samuels - Be Careful With A Fool

Steve Samuels, Sings and plays his song with brother Andrew on Bass. William Clarke, Blues Harp.











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Hobemian Records artist: Arthur Migliazza - Laying It Down - New Release Review

I just received the newest release, Laying It Down, from Arthur Migliazza and it's quite entertaining. Opening with Overture, a swampy instrumental turning to New Orleans boogie this track is a great opener. Fats Domino's I'm Ready has all of the pep of the original featuring Migliazza on piano and vocal, Keith Lowe on bass, Kelly Van Camp on drums and Jeff Fielder on guitar. A real rocker with super boogie piano this track is hot. Hughie Piano Smith's Rockin' Pneumonia and the Boogie Woogie Flu is up next. Andy Roth joins on drums and Bill Molloy on guitar but it's the solid vocals and springy piano work that makes this track work. Nice job! Albert Ammons' Boogie Woogie Stomp is one of my favorite piano boogies and Migliazza does an excellent job of rolling this classic track! Love You Mana has a real nice blues swagger with Jeff Fielder singing a duet with Migliazza. He also steps up with a really nice guitar solo complimented nicely by Grant Dermody on harp. Next up is Louis Primas Sing Sing Sing/Bumble Boogie which features cool drum riffs by Andy Roth complimenting the excellent key work of Migliazza. Bourbon Street Parade has classic Dixieland style and Migliazza rolls right into it. Keith Lowe is key on bass but nice additions by Suzy Thompson on fiddle and Jeff Fielder on banjo really add a nice touch. Thank You Blues is a down and dirty number and Migliazza really grinds it out on piano. Sean Divine lays down some really soulful harp riffs on this track. Meade Lux Lewis' Honky Tonk Train Blues is up next and it really strides. Eagle really does a nice job of keeping it tight and light on drums putting the spotlight squarely on the piano work of Migliazza. Suitcase Blues, made popular by Sippe Wallace is next up and Migliazza does it solo with vocal and piano as original. Very nice. WC Handy classic St. Louis Blues gets a classical intro but digs quickly into a boogie rhythm. Featuring Ed Friedland on bass and Eagle on drums. Breaking into full uptempo stride this is a very cool instrumental. Professor Calling Me has a really strong New Orleans taste and Migliazza hammers it. I particularly like the drum work of Roth on this track. Wrapping the release is another classic from Albert Ammons, The Boogie Rocks and it certainly does. A high precision piano boogie, this track is an excellent conclusion to a fine piano boogie release. If you love classic piano blues... you'll love this release.

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Bloodshot Records artist: Bobby Bare Jr.'s YOUNG CRIMINALS' STARVATION LEAGUE - Undefeated - New release Review

I just received the newest release (4/15/14), Undefeated, from Bobby Bare, Jr.'s Young Criminals' Starvation League and it's interesting and quite diverse. Opening with an catchy track, North Of Alabama By Mornin', Bare and his troop of musicians show that they mean business with grinding beat and gripping guitar riffs. If She Cared is a straight up pop track featuring bare on lead vocals blended nicely with Carey Kotsionis on backing vocals. Matt Rowland on keys takes a easy pace in a sort of Paul Hornsby fashion. The Big Time is another track with a light poppy sound with Richie Kirkpatrick and David Vandervelde on guitars/bass. Don't Wanna Know has a really melodic sound with a hit of a Pink Floyd melody. A very nicely blended vocal with Kotsionis and some cool guitar effects makes this one of the releases most memorable. The Elegant Imposter has a really unusual rhythm pattern and a cool melodic interlude. Title track, Undefeated, has a really interesting sonic backing with simple guitar, drums and bass. Backing vocals from Kotsionis along with Bare and Jordan Caress make this track an immediate track for airplay. Loosely ripped guitar solo in this track is the star of the release instrumentally. Excellent! My Baby Took My Baby Away is a quirky little ditty with a touch of the Beatles and a touch of Harry Nilsson (and possibly Tiny Tim). Blame Everybody (But Yourself) has some real soundtrack like characteristics and a poppy overtone but with a bit of David Bowie bite. Interesting. As Forever Became Never Again is another track with a strong melodic line, in this case really reminiscent of an Apple band with caliope feel. Don't Stand At The Stove wraps the release with a more rocking feel and floating guitar riffs. Overall this is a curious release with a lot of strong songwriting and interesting instrumental work. Check it out.

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Gregg Allman's Vast Musical Legacy Is Honored on "All My Friends: Celebrating the Songs & Voice of Gregg Allman," Out May 6 on Rounder

Gregg Allman’s Vast Musical Legacy Is Honored On All My Friends: Celebrating the Songs & Voice of Gregg Allman, Out May 6 on Rounder   Rolling Stone Premieres “Midnight Rider” Watch Here: http://rol.st/1ln8VFL   Nashville, TN – April 2, 2014 – On January 10, 2014, a multi-generational assortment of musicians from the worlds of rock, blues and country joined together at Atlanta's historic Fox Theatre for a once-in-a-lifetime all-star performance to pay tribute to the life and music of the legendary singer/musician/songwriter Gregg Allman.  That live musical event can now be experienced via the new multimedia package All My Friends: Celebrating the Songs & Voice of Gregg Allman, set for release by Rounder Records on May 6th, 2014 Shot in high definition video with 5:1 Dolby sound, this 1-DVD, 2-CD package (also available in multiple format variations including Blu-Ray) captures the four-hour concert event in its entirety.  The show features a diverse assortment of high-profile Allman admirers paying tribute to the iconic veteran rocker, delivering distinctive new performances of classic material drawn from his four and a half decades as a recording artist; encompassing his landmark work with the legendary Allman Brothers Band as well as his parallel solo career. The variety of the artists paying tribute to Allman, and the diversity of their interpretations of his songs, attests to the broad appeal of Allman's talents, which transcend stylistic and generational boundaries.  With musical direction by noted producer/musician Don Was, several of the guest performers are drawn from the Allman Brothers Band's extended musical family, including current ABB guitarists Warren Haynes and Derek Trucks (who also appears here with his wife and frequent musical partner Susan Tedeschi) and Gregg's talented son Devon Allman. The prestigious slate of performers also includes such Allman contemporaries as Jackson Browne, Dr. John, John Hiatt, Taj Mahal, Wet Willie singer Jimmy Hall and classic soul man Sam Moore (of Sam and Dave fame), along with such younger acts as Robert Randolph, Keb' Mo', Widespread Panic and Pat Monahan of Train.  Such notable guest performers as Eric Church, Trace Adkins, Vince Gill, Martina McBride, Zac Brown, Brantley Gilbert and Jess Franklin represent the world of country music, long a key component in Allman’s musical consciousness. All My Friends: Celebrating the Songs & Voice of Gregg Allman would not be complete without Allman's own authoritative voice, which is spotlighted here on collaborative readings of landmark tunes with Gregg's onetime L.A. roommate Jackson Browne ("These Days," "Melissa"), Vince Gill and Zac Brown ("Midnight Rider") and Taj Mahal ("Statesboro Blues").  Gregg also joins with the Allman Brothers Band to deliver fiery readings of the classics "Dreams" and "Whipping Post," which precede a set-closing "Will the Circle Be Unbroken," performed by the show's full cast.  With the recent announcement that the Allman Brothers Band will cease touring at the end of 2014, these may be among the last recordings of the band on stage. The All My Friends show features a celebrated house band that includes Don Was on bass, former Allman Brothers Band members Chuck Leavell (keyboards) and Jack Pearson (guitar), ex-Black Crowes guitarist Audley Freed, Wallflowers keyboardist Rami Jaffee and renowned drummer-to-the-stars Kenny Aronoff. As Allman later enthused, "That show was one of the highlights of my life.  It was great to see old friends, and everyone was so gracious and really poured their souls into my songs.  It was a very special night." In most video formats, All My Friends also features extensive bonus video material, including 26 exclusive interviews with the show's performers, candid behind-the-scenes material, and historic footage of a special presentation to Allman. Gregg Allman is one of rock's most acclaimed and beloved icons, possessing a distinctively soulful voice and singular songwriting ability that resonate through a musical career that spans nearly half a century.  Gregg, along with the Allman Brothers Band, was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of fame in 1995.  At the 54th Annual Grammy Awards in 2012, the group was honored with a Lifetime Achievement Award. The same year, Gregg's critically acclaimed tell-all memoir, My Cross to Bear, spent several weeks as a New York Times Bestseller. Amazon 2CD + DVD preorder:  http://smarturl.it/AMFcddvd Amazon 2CD + Blu-Ray  preorder:  http://smarturl.it/AMFcdbluray Hittin' The Note:  http://smarturl.it/GAhtn Project website: celebrategreggallman.com Gregg Allman web: greggallman.com Gregg Allman Facebook: facebook.com/GreggAllman Gregg Allman Twitter: twitter.com/GreggAllmanNews   Track listing: CD 1             1.          Come and Go Blues – Warren Haynes                         (Gregg Allman)                                                2.          End of the Line – Warren Haynes and Derek Trucks                         (Gregg Allman-Warren Haynes-John Jaworowicz-Allen Woody)                                    3.          Stand Back – Susan Tedeschi and Derek Trucks                         (Gregg Allman-Raymond Berry Oakland III)                                    4.          You Can’t Lose What You Ain’t Never Had – Devon Allman, Jimmy Hall and  Robert                                          Randolph                          (McKinley Morganfield)                                    5.          Please Call Home – Sam Moore                         (Gregg Allman)                                    6.          Just Another Rider – Keb’ Mo’                         (Gregg Allman-Warren Haynes)                                    7.          Before the Bullets Fly – Brantley Gilbert                         (Warren Haynes- John Jaworowicz-Henry Jack Williams)             8.          Let This Be a Lesson to Ya – Dr. John                         (Gregg Allman-Malcolm Rebennack)                                    9.          Queen of Hearts – Pat Monahan                         (Gregg Allman)                                    10.        One Way Out – John Hiatt                          (Sonny Boy Williamson-Elmore James-Marshall Sehorn)                                                11.        Statesboro Blues – Taj Mahal and Gregg Allman                         (Blind Willie McTell)                                    12.        Just Ain’t Easy – Widespread Panic                         (Gregg Allman)                                    13.        Wasted Words – Widespread Panic and Derek Trucks                         (Gregg Allman)                                    14.        I’m No Angel – Trace Adkins                         (Tony Colton-Phil Palmer) CD 2             1.          Trouble No More – Trace Adkins                         (Muddy Waters)                                    2.          Multi-Colored Lady – Vince Gill                         (Gregg Allman)                                    3.          All My Friends – Martina McBride                         (Scott Boyer)                                    4.          Can You Fool – Pat Monahan and Martina McBride                         (Michael Smotherman)                                    5.          Ain’t Wastin’ Time No More – Eric Church                         (Gregg Allman)                                    6.          Win, Lose or Draw – Eric Church                         (Gregg Allman)                                    7.          These Days – Jackson Browne and Gregg Allman                         (Jackson Browne)                                    8.          Melissa – Jackson Browne and Gregg Allman                         (Gregg Allman-Steve Alaimo)                                     9.          Midnight Rider – Vince Gill, Zac Brown and Gregg Allman                          (Gregg Allman-Robert Kim Payne)                                    10.        Dreams – The Allman Brothers Band                         (Gregg Allman)                                    11.        Whipping Post – The Allman Brothers Band                         (Gregg Allman)             12.        Will the Circle Be Unbroken – full cast                         Traditional DVD             1.          Come and Go Blues – Warren Haynes             2.          End of the Line – Warren Haynes and Derek Trucks             3.          Stand Back – Susan Tedeschi and Derek Trucks             4.          You Can’t Lose What You Ain’t Never Had – Devon Allman, Jimmy Hall and Robert                                        Randolph             5.          Please Call Home – Sam Moore             6.          Just Another Rider – Keb’ Mo’             7.          Before the Bullets Fly – Brantley Gilbert             8.          Let This Be a Lesson to Ya – Dr. John             9.          Queen of Hearts – Pat Monahan             10.        One Way Out – John Hiatt             11.        Statesboro Blues – Taj Mahal and Gregg Allman             12.        Just Ain’t Easy – Widespread Panic             13.        Wasted Words – Widespread Panic and Derek Trucks             14.        I’m No Angel – Trace Adkins             15.        Trouble No More – Trace Adkins             16.        Multi-Colored Lady – Vince Gill             17.        All My Friends – Martina McBride             18.        Can You Fool – Pat Monahan and Martina McBride             19.        Ain’t Wastin’ Time No More – Eric Church             20.        Win, Lose or Draw – Eric Church             21.        These Days – Jackson Browne and Gregg Allman             22.        Melissa – Jackson Browne and Gregg Allman             23.        Midnight Rider – Vince Gill, Zac Brown and Gregg Allman             24.        Dreams – The Allman Brothers Band             25.        Whipping Post – The Allman Brothers Band             26.        Will the Circle Be Unbroken – full cast     www.concordmusicgroup.com