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I started a quest to find terrific blues music and incredible musicianship when I was just a little kid. I also have a tremendous appreciation of fine musical instruments and equipment. One of my greatest joys all of my life was sharing my finds with my friends. I'm now publishing my journey. I hope that you come along!


Please email me at Info@Bmansbluesreport.com

Wednesday, September 3, 2014

World's Best Blues & Beer Meet in Ventura at 6th Annual California Beer Festival



WORLD'S BEST BLUES & BEER MEET IN VENTURA:
TWO-DAY CALIFORNIA BEER FESTIVAL IS BACK


Ventura Beer Week: Sept. 14-21

Craft Beer Heaven: Saturday, Sept. 20 (12:30 p.m. -5 p.m.)
Blues & BBQ Festival: Sunday, Sept. 21 (11 a.m.-6 p.m.)



SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 20: CBF'S FAMOUS "CRAFT BEER HEAVEN" - OVER 140 LOCAL, REGIONAL, AND NATIONAL CRAFT BEERS ON TAP, PLUS WIDE ARRAY OF GOURMET FOOD TRUCKS AND ALL-DAY MUSIC


SUNDAY, SEPTEMBER 21: "BLUES & BBQ FESTIVAL" - AMAZING MUSIC LINEUP (TAB BENOIT, GARY HOEY, TRAMPLED UNDER FOOT, MORE) AND ALL-DAY BBQ SAMPLING, WITH CHILDREN 12 AND UNDER, FREE
 
 

   (Ventura, CA) - All roads lead to Ventura as the world's best Blues music and Craft Beer once again meet at the 6th Annual California Beer Festival, Mission Park, 185 E. Santa Clara St., Saturday, September 20 and Sunday, September 21. Prior to that is Ventura County Beer Week, from September 14-21, with nightly Craft beer-themed activities at selected venues throughout Ventura. The California Beer Festival is now a yearly post-Labor Day event that draws several thousand people during each of it's two distinctly different days - Saturday primarily for Craft Beer enthusiasts; Sunday for Blues lovers of all ages permitted (children 12 and under, free). Tickets priced as follows: Saturday's Craft Beer Heaven, $50.; Designated Driver tickets (Saturday only), $25.; Sunday's Blues & BBQ Fest (only), $30.; Blues & BBQ Sample Judge ticket, $45. (get to sample up to eight BBQ entries and vote for thew winners! Sunday only); V.I.P. 3-Day Pass (Friday's 'Brew With A View,' Saturday's Craft Beer Heaven and Sunday's Blues & BBQ Fest, $!09; 2-Day Pass (Craft Beer Festival and Blues & BBQ Fest), $75. Buy tickets now at http://www.californiabeerfestival.com/ventura/buytickets.php. Info: (805) 351-5650. In keeping with the yearly tradition, a portion of the proceeds from each day benefit the Gen Giammanco Foundation, a non-profit organization that provides financial support to student athletes to assist in their pursuit of both scholastic and athletic success in Ventura County.




            Saturday, September 20: CRAFT BEER HEAVEN


   Saturday's Craft Beer Heaven (12:30-5:00 p.m.) is one of the largest yearly beer festivals in the state, and with over 140 craft beers on tap, it's a great place to come sample amazing craft beer from all over the world. Sample such fine beers as the legendary Burt's Honey Wheat; Karl Strauss; Surf Brewery; Figueroa Mountain Brewing Company; Creekside brewing Company; Woodchuck Hard Cider; Twisted Manzanita Ales; Wolf Creek Brewing Company; Mike's Hard Lemonade Company; American Vintage Beverage; Headlands Brewing Company; The Lab Brewing Company; Tap It Brewing Company; Fireman's Brew; Chaucer's Cellars; The Boston Beer Company; Ace Cider; Twisted Tea Brewing Company; Indian Wells Brewery; Reverend Nats Hard CIder; Anderson Valley Brewing Company; Einstok; Venice Duck Brewery; Frozen Beer; Mendocino Brewing Company; Mission Brewery; Telegraph Brewing; Crabbie's Ginger Beer; Crabbie's Orange Spiced; Kronenbourg Blanc 1664; Oskar Blues; and Coronado Brewing Company. Live music throughout the day by Rey Fresco, Dr. M and Petty Theft, the ultimate Tom Petty And The Heartbreakers tribute band. A great place to expand your mind and educate yourself on new and old styles of craft beer! Space is very limited; must be 21 years or older to attend. (Note: Beer Sampling times are from 1 p.m.-4:30 p.m.).



Guitarist Tab Benoit (pictured) heads Sunday's stellar Blues & BBQ Festival lineup. Also performing; Gary Hoey; Trampled Under Foot; Sister Sparrow & The Dirty Birds; Michael John & The Bottom Line; Jonathan "Boogie" Long.


           Sunday, September 21: BLUES & BBQ FESTIVAL

   Sunday's Blues & BBQ Festival features perhaps the most ambitious and eclectic lineup yet, in addition to amazing barbecue from top teams throughout California (special tickets must be purchased for BBQ sampling).

   Headlining the main stage is guitarist Tab Benoit, Louisiana’s No. 1 roots export. More than just an acclaimed bluesman, he is an indefatigable conservation advocate. Benoit is a driving force behind Voice of the Wetlands, an organization working to save Louisiana’s wetlands. In 2010, he received the Governor’s Award for Conservationist of the Year from the Louisiana Wildlife Federation. Benoit also starred in the iMax motion picture Hurricane on the Bayou, a documentary of Hurricane Katrina’s effects and a call to restore the wetlands. In 2007, Benoit won the dual awards of B.B. King Entertainer of the Year and Best Contemporary Male Performer at the Blues Music Awards in Memphis (formerly the W.C. Handy Awards). In 2006, he received a Grammy nomination for Best Traditional Blues. Benoit's latest album, his seventh on the Telarc label, is titled Medicine. http://www.tabbenoit.com/.



    World-renowned, rock guitarist Gary Hoey takes on the Blues with his new album, Deja Blues (Wazoo Music Group). "This is an album of original blues songs I’ve wanted to record for a long time. The blues has always been near and dear to my heart," states Hoey. "I have so much respect for it. When I’m recording a blues song, it’s a five-minute journey and you can’t take a breath, you can’t keep punching in the recording button to fix stuff or it loses the vibe.” To this day the guitar aficionado continues to tour extensively, endorsing Fender guitars and Amps, Monster cable, GHS Strings, and Rocktron to name a few. Hoey has toured and traded licks with the likes of Jeff Beck, Brian May of Queen, Joe Bonamassa, Ted Nugent, Joe Satriani, The Doobie Brothers, Foreigner, Styx, Steve Vai, Eric Johnson, Peter Frampton, and Dick Dale. http://garyhoey.com/.


  Trampled Under Foot was originally formed as a family band consisting of Danielle, Nick and Kris Schnebelen. The trio headed to Memphis in 2008 for the IBC's, winning first place honors. Riding the wave of support following the IBC's, TUF took their unique style of power blues-rock to audiences around the world. After a series of headlining tours and standout performances at blues festivals across the globe, TUF earned the reputation as one of the hottest bands on the blues circuit. While their fan base grew world-wide, the trio released multiple CDs and DVDs under their own label, TUF Records, including 2011's highly-acclaimed Wrong Side of the Blues. The success of that album caught the attention of many throughout the music industry and in 2013 the band partnered with Concord Music Group to release their major label debut, Badlands. Hailed by fans and critics alike, Badlands revealed a musical sophistication well beyond the band’s years and provided further proof that Trampled Under Foot was the real deal. In 2014, after brother Kris announced he was leaving the band, Danielle and Nick solicited long-time friend/fellow KC musician Jan Faircloth to join them on drums. The addition of Faircloth inspired TUF to make other lineup changes; the group then added keyboardist Mike “Shinetop” Sedovic, turning the trio in to a four-piece and adding a new dimension to their already-stellar live performances. http://www.tufkc.com/.


   Sister Sparrow & The Dirty Birds is a seven-piece powerhouse that put a modern spin on classic soul. The band is led by Arleigh Kincheloe (Sister Sparrow), whose astoundingly powerful voice and sly demeanor make for a spellbinding presence onstage. She is backed by the mighty force of The Dirty Birds, a flock of seven men who masterfully lay down thundering grooves and soaring melodies. While each of the Birds are capable of lighting up the stage with jaw-dropping displays of musicianship, it’s clear they’re all focused on delivering the band’s infectious music as a single entity. Simply put, the band’s live show is explosive. Sister Sparrow’s commanding style alone is more than enough to dazzle audiences, but the magic doesn’t end with her: the band’s palpable camaraderie, undeniable talent and passion for music makes for a contagious combination that is taking the country by storm. Sister Sparrow & The Dirty Birds’ blend of seductive soul and dirty blues-rock reminds audiences why they love live music. http://www.sistersparrow.com/.



   Southern California native Michael John and his band, The Bottom Line, have earned their spot in the Blues scene. This six-piece, high-energy contemporary original blues band has played at many Festivals, concert theaters and venues such as The Doheny Blues Festival, Monterey Bay Blues Festival, BB King's Blues Club, Galaxy Theater, Coach House, and Ventura Theater. They have shared the bill with Buddy Guy, Jonny Lang, The Robert Cray Band, Taj Mahal & The Phantom Blues Band, Coco Montoya, The Fabulous Thunderbirds, Robben Ford, John Hammond, Bobby Blue Bland, Solomon Burke, Rod Piazza and Tommy Castro to name a few. Michael John's strong, soulful vocals are without a doubt his main instrument while also supporting the groove with a style all his own on harmonica and rhythm Guitar. Their music has received positive feedback and airplay on blues stations throughout the U.S. http://michaeljohnandthebottomline.com/.


   Hailing from Baton Rouge, Louisiana, Jonathon “Boogie” Long was born with the blues coursing through his veins. Brought up in a Southern Baptist community, he first picked up the guitar at the age of six, teaching himself old gospel songs. At fourteen, Long left school to lay down his roots touring with local legends such as Henry Turner Jr. Since then, Long has shared the stage with standout musicians like Warren Haynes and Govt. Mule, Dr. John, Rockin’ Dopsie, Monte Montgomery, Ellis Hall, Kenny Neal, Larry Garner, Henry Gray, Lil Ray Neal, and Lou Marini of the Blues Brothers Band. Long currently fronts his own blues/soul trio, The Blues Revolution. His soul-stomping vocals and monster guitar shredding, paired with bluesy songwriting chops, make his powerhouse performances a “must see.” In 2013, Long was tapped by B.B. King to support his fou r-week tour.  He was also given a prime slot at the New Orleans Jazz Festival. Long's debut record was released in April of 2013. http://jonathonboogielong.com/.
 
   

R. Music, Inc artists: Generation Blues Experience - Private Angel - New release review

I just received the newest release, Private Angel, from Generation Blues Experience and it's hot! Opening with Little Mama, a cool blues track with a Latin feel features Sammy Lee on vocal and the crisp guitar style of Ray Goren. Lester Lands lays out a really nice bass rhythm joined by Albert Trepagnier Jr on drums and Tadg Galleran on keys. Dan Weinstein (coronet and trombone) and Bobby Hurricane Spencer (tenor sax) add some depth on horn. Goren opens the second track, the title track, Private Angel, with soulful BB King like riffs and takes lead on vocals. A young but solid voice, Goren does a really nice job. Crazy slows it down for a deeper blues and Jamie Powell on vocals. Powell has a great blues voice and he hits it here! Lee adds a nice harp backing on the vocals and Goren really rips it loose on guitar on this track. I like his feel of texture and reckless abandon. Not saying he sounds like Buddy Guy, but Guy is one player who has made reckless abandon his trademark and Goren seems to be exploring this avenue. Excellent! R&B track Rainin' features Goren on lead vocal with solid horn backing. A cool radio player, this track is the lead single for the release. Sammy Lee is back on lead vocal on Katrina and BB King like guitar attack by Goren shows strong composure. A cool swinger, Goren tackles this blues like an old pro developing some nice chops. Sugar Momma is one of my favorite tracks on the release with a really nice harp intro from Lee on the intro. Lee's rich voice resonates nicely on this track and Goren trades guitar riffs with lee on harp for a solid set. Very nice! Lester Lands steps up to the mic for Put Love On Your Guest List. He has an exceptional voice more along the lines of Curtis Mayfield or some of the better R&B singers and I really like it. Goren plays a tasty swing guitar solo backed nicely by Powell and Lands on rhythm guitar. Weinstein and Spencer add warmth to this already smooth track on horns. Swingin'! On Bill Withers', Ain't No Sunshine, Goren takes the lead on vocal and the track has a bit more of a "Thrill Is Gone" rhythm allowing Goren the chance to really stretch it out a bit. With really nice bends and and double stops, this is absolutely Gorens chance to lay it all out there. Taking the volume down for some dynamic range Goren works the crowd. Nice job!

 “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

 

Tuesday, September 2, 2014

If You Don't Give Me What I Want - Miss Ida Blue

There's a flood of old timey jazz bands right now and a bunch of jug and blues bands but really, no one else is NYC is singing the bawdy but uptown vaudeville blues style of Bessie Smith, Mamie Smith, Memphis Minnie, and others--let alone doing it so well! Ida emanates Brooklyn attitude, which stems partly from her hoodrat-meets-Amy Winehouse fashion sense, from ripped tights to a diamond cheek piercing. Ida (real name Mara Kaye) was born and raised in Mill Basin, Brooklyn. She says, "I'm really into rapper gold and boss chains. Even in a black and white photo that gold shines through. It looks hard against my white socks and little dresses? rough around the edges. It's Brooklyn, the Brooklyn I know about, the Brooklyn I grew up with... Back in '95 in mill basin you either had a nameplate necklace or a nameplate ring or, if you were lucky, you had both."

“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 Get Facebook support for your favorite band or venue - click HERE
 

Blind Pig Records artist: Sena Ehrhardt - Live My Life - New Release Review

I just received the newest release (September 2, 2014), Live My Life, from Sena Ehrhardt. Opening with pop country rocker, The Stakes Have Gone Up, Sena, who is a serious vocalist is joined by lead guitarist Cole Allen for what would be an opening radio hit. Things You Shouldn't Need To Know opens with twin guitar lead of Allen and Smokin' Joe Kubek. Rick Roussell lays down a nice bass line and Paul Peterson adds a nice drum rhythm. Kubek steps up on this track with a cool slide solo as well. Classic R&B track, Slow Down, gets a nice rework for one of the most enjoyable tracks on the release. Joined by St. Paul Peterson on bass and Michael Bland on drums this track has spunk. On Leon Russell's Help Me Through The Day, Ehrhardt puts her soul into this solid ballad. Bruce McCabe add some real nice key work on this track and is joined by Jimi "Primetime" Smith on rhythm guitar allowing a nice space for Allen to lay down a smokey guitar solo. Title track, Live My Life, has a funky feel with a definite pop edge. Allen throws down a short but blistering guitar solo to ice this track. Chilled To The Bone is an easy rocker with a catchy melody and smooth rhythms. Allen sits back on the track but does lay in some nice guitar riffs complimenting Ehrhardt's strong vocals. Too Late To Ask has a bluesy feel with Ehrhardt and Allen sharing lead vocals. This is probably the hot track for radio play with all of the right components for broad appeal. Funky rocker, Everybody Is You, has a real nice groove and Ehrhardt gets right into it. I particularly like Allen's attack on guitar on this track. Albert Collin's If Trouble Was Money drags Ehrhardt into the grit and she is right on it. The bluesiest track on the release, Allen takes his guitar for a nice ride... very cool! Did You Ever Love Me At All is another pop rocker with a bit of sting. Allen on second lead vocal is a nice contrast to Ehrhardt and again with rugged guitar work gives the track a bit more edge. Wrapping the release is Come Closer, an easy country ballad. Overall this is a fairly pliable release with a little something for everyone. A number of the tracks should appeal to broad audience and the release is fairly consistent in style.

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Saturday, August 30, 2014

American Showplace Music artist: John Ginty - Bad News Travels DVD - New Release Review

I just received a cool new DVD from John Ginty, The Showplace Sessions Live. This is a live video session of Bad News Travels and it's quite live, tight and entertaining. Opening with Switch, a walking bass line driven B3 extravaganza. Paul Kuzik sets the tempo and Ginty takes over where Booker T left off. With a double drums setup featuring Dan Fadel and Andrei Koribanics this is a tight track. Very nice! Arrivals is a funky jam with cool guitar lines by Mike Buckman and Ginty playing against his retort. Next up is Black Cat featuring Albert Castiglia. A slow blues groove, Ginty sets a really nice stage for Castiglia to take the lead on vocal and guitar. I've only ever seen Castiglia on Youtube (never live) and he is an exceptional player. I am looking forward to seeing him if he ever makes it to Phoenix. He doesn't over sing, his phrasing is inviting and his vocals are really nice. Ginty plays both piano and B3 solos taunting Castiglia into a really sweet and extremely fiery guitar solo. Excellent! On funk infused Elvis Presley, again Castiglia takes the lead on vocals with the feel of Boz Scaggs. I've reviewed a few of his releases and all favorable but watching him in person quickly elevates him to the list of people who I want to see in person soon! Castiglia's smokin' soloing played against Ginty's strong improvisational skills on keys makes this one terrific track. Up next is Peanut Butter, an easy shuffle featuring Todd Wolfe. Ginty's B3 work is exemplary and Wolfe grabs his tele just choking the life out of it. I've seen Wolfe in concert a few times and have always walked away smiling but Ginty coaxes a flame thrower out of Wolfe's bag of tricks. Excellent! I think that I mentioned that it was hard for me to fathom a blues band that was primarily built around a B3 player but Ginty is one guy who can really carry it off. He is no wallflower and really cooks the keys. On Rock Ridge, there is a cool phase shift during the B3 intro that messes with your head a little bit. Wolfe uses a coricidin bottle to get his slide tone before breaking into a cool jazz style jam with Kuzin walking the bass lead and Ginty and Wolfe stretching it out. Very nice! Next up is Seven and the Spirit, a bluesy rocker featuring Alexis P. Suter. I just reviewed Suter's terrific new release and it's a pleasure to see her join Ginty on stage with her guitar player, Jimmy Bennett. This is one of today's elite female blues singers with Jackie Scott and Karen Carroll in my opinion. Bennett lays into his Les Paul and Ginty adds substantially to the track with his well heeled organ work, along with the drumming of Fadel and Koribanics elevating the track to a full revival feel (Can't Turn You Loose). Guitarist/vocalist Cris Jacobs and Castiglia join Suter and Ginty on stage for Damage Control, a funky rocker with more than a little taste of country. Jacobs knows his way around the telecaster and plays some blistering solos but also venturing into Jerry Garcia territory in style. Castiglia, playing his custom strat style guitar with rosewood fretboard and what look like some pretty expensive humbuckers. Sharing vocals on this track each player gets a chance to take his day in the spotlight making for a pretty cool jam. The Quirk opens with a cool B3 riff from Ginty, joined by Castiglia and Jacobs. Kuzik is solid on bass and Ginty gets a chance to stretch a bit. Jacobs takes the first guitar solo with a very round sound for a tele. Castiglia is up next mowing the fretboard's upper register. Ginty brings the tension back down with his laid back melody before driving off on his own solo. Off the Cuff is a keyboard feature track for Ginty with primarily drum and bass backing. The duo drumming actually brings me in mind of early Allmans with Trucks and Jainoe. Listening to it multiple times I actually think I hear a trace of Trouble No More hiding in there somewhere. Fadel and Koribanics take a pretty nice drum break showing the cleanliness and coordination of two guys who play a lot together. Ginty takes a free form solo without any backing. Creating a musical impressionistic painting as an abstracted graphic forms on the screen is a definite change. Sliding right in to the beautiful intro of Mirrors, Ginty and Jacobs trade riffs before opening into a funky rock track. Jacobs gets a Santana like tone out of his tele and plays sparingly as Ginty crafts the body of the track, taking extended times breathing very soulful solos from his tele. Very nice! Wrapping the release is Trinity featuring all of the guest artists along with Ginty and band. Again, a tent raising revival style track finds Ginty leading the way. Breaking into a smooth sway Castiglia is fist to take the floor followed closely by Jacobs. Shifting gears again to a bit of a pop feel, Ginty creates a theme line and Buckman gives his first solo. Jacobs isn't far behind with a hot blistering riff followed by Bennett on slide. Castiglia paces himself taking the longer of the solos with plenty of spark. Wolfe is also more patient but lays out a crisp solo as well. Cool conclusion to a really nice show.

 The extras include an impromptu interview with Ginty as he sets up his B3 and Leslie. This is primarily an opportunity to meet John the man and his dedication to his own craft. Another feature is an interview with producer/director Ben Elliott. A walk around the control room shows the super analog equipment present in Showplace studio. Some of the history of the studio and equipment and it's significance to the sound is really cool. Additional footage shows the live room where the musicians sit. An explanation of how the acoustics are controlled and different acoustic effects as well as isolation rooms are featured.  

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”

 

Friday, August 29, 2014

New release, video from singing sensation Sena Ehrhardt



blindpigrecords.com
NEW ALBUM, VIDEO FROM SINGING SENSATION SENA EHRHARDT

“Sena Ehrhardt's voice cannot get any more powerful, range-defying, and throwback cool. Truly one of the most dynamic young voices any genre has seen in a long time. "  - Living Blues 
http://mailman.305spin.com/users/blindpigrecords/images/Sena5161Web.jpg Blind Pig Records has released the latest album from singing sensation Sena Ehrhardt, entitled Live My Life (streets Sept. 2).  Produced by Grammy-winner David Z. (Buddy Guy, Prince, Jonny Lang, Gov't Mule) it features Sena's all-new band lineup of hard-driving, top-flight musicians.
Sena has emerged as one of the freshest and most engaging young voices on the blues scene today, recently opening concerts for the likes of B.B. King, ZZ Top, Robert Cray, Dickey Betts, Gregg Allman, and the late Johnny Winter.  Live My Life further confirms Sena’s ascendance to blues elite status.
After serving as her band’s lead guitarist and songwriting collaborator through her first two releases, Sena’s father stepped aside earlier this year.  Now, with a new release, and a powerful new band behind her, Sena is looking forward to exciting opportunities on the horizon to wow audiences nationally and internationally as she continues to come into her own as a vocalist, songwriter and entertainer.
“Working in the studio with producer David Z. at the helm was a dream come true. His catalog of work has been, in some ways, a soundtrack of my life – ranging from Prince to Jonny Lang. In the studio he brought inspired and emotional performances out of myself, my band and the guest musicians on my album. It was truly an honor to work with a creative and contemporary living legend in music. The carefully selected covers are songs that I have held dear to my heart for years, with my own spin on their classic stories and appeal. The process of writing the original compositions for this album, along with my guitarist, Cole Allen, was incredibly rewarding.”
New Video
Blind Pig has also released a new Sena Ehrhardt promotional video.  To watch the video of "Things You Shouldn't Need To Know," a track from the new release, please click HERE.

Blues Mountain Records artist: Big Harp George - Chromaticism - New release Review

I just received the newest release, Chromaticism, from Big Harp George and it's really super. Opening with traditional swing track, Smack Dab In The Middle, Big Harp George Bisharat leads the way with a really solid voice. Chris Burns does a really nice job on keys and Kent Bryson adds a really cool vibes solo adding a different flavor. On Crazy About You Baby, Raja Kawar revs up the drums and Little Charlie Baty joins on guitar. Bisharat is a natural band leader with a spot on vocal delivery and harmonica accompaniment. Original track, Left So Soon, is a real cooker, down deep in the blues and George milks the blues from his harp. Rusty Zinn steps up on guitar on this track really adding a nice shine to an already smokin track. Excellent! My Baby Is Now On My Mind is a cool shuffle again with Zinn on guitar. The chromatic guitar really shines on this track and Zinn kicks off a gallop with his prime solo on this track aided by Kawar. Title track, Chromaticism, is a strong driving instrumental boogie with hot harp riffs. Little Charlie is back on guitar and rides it hard. Another excellent track! Hard Way, given a Latin twist on the blues specifically by the bass lead by Kid Anderson and Kawar on drums. Again George shows just how colorful and diverse a chromatic harp can be. Cellphone Hater takes the pace back down giving Zinn space to grind out some really tasty guitar riffs. Michael Peloquin adds some really nice sax and Chris Burns is tight on keys. Little Charlie leads the way with some really flavorful riffs to open Strolling Down Bliss Street, a swinging boogie. George really gets some cool tone cranked up on this track and Baty takes a really sweet solo to wrap it up. Cocktail Hour is a laid back jazzier blues track with a looseness that gives the harmonica air. Backed along the melody by Bryson on vibes is a really cool effect and Baty lays down some really hot guitar riffs. Very nice! Bryson steps out with a cool vibes solo adding something you don't typically hear on a contemporary blues album. Very cool! Classic blues track Someday is done just beautifully. I have always loved this track and George lays in the groove and lets it happen. Burns alternating back and forth between piano and organ is a cool effect and Georges vocals are heartfelt. On original track, Hey Jaleh! George dabbles into Cajun territory with just a taste of spice on a traditional Chicago sound. Chromatic harp and Zinn on guitar is a really nice match on the break. Smokin! Wrapping the release is Drum Boogie which really cooks! Lead by Peloquin on sax, he really gets this track hopping! This iss a hot band and they don't hold anything back , letting it all out on this track. Baty lays down some really crisp riffs and Kawar is tight on the bottom. Excellent! This will definitely end up on my best of the year....watch for it!

  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”

Thursday, August 28, 2014

August Is Sizzlin' And So Is The Blowin' Smoke R&B Revue at Harvelle's!


        
                                                
August Is Sizzlin & So Is The Blowin' Smoke Rhythm & Blues Revue
Returning To Harvelle's In Santa Monica on Saturday, August 30th
                         

Santa Monica's Hottest Monthly R&B/Blues/Soul Dance Party For 2 Decades!


   (Santa Monica, CA) - August is sizzlin' and so is the Blowin' Smoke Rhythm & Blues Revue, who on Saturday, August 30 return to Harvelle's in Santa Monica for their monthly R&B/Soul/Blues dance/musical blowout that nevers fails to entertain and always packs the club with people dancing up a storm! Showtime 9:30 p.m.-1:30 a.m. $10. Harvelle's is located at 1432 S. 4th St., in Santa Monica. Info: (310) 395-1976 or https://www.facebook.com/harvelles.

              


                  BLOWIN' SMOKE'S LARRY "FUZZY" KNIGHT IN THE NEWS


   Blowin' Smoke's band leader, Larry "Fuzzy" Knight, does in-depth interviews tracing his long career up to the present with both Professor Johnny P's Juke Joint: http://professorjohnnyp.blogspot.com/2014/06/larry-fuzzy-knight-bringing-music-from.html; and Making A Scene magazine: http://www.makingascene.org/an-interview-with-larry-fuzzy-knight/.





   Come and find out for yourself why the Blowin' Smoke Rhythm & Blues Revue were voted by MUSIC CONNECTION magazine as a "Hot 100 Live Artist for 2013" in their year-end issue, topping several thousand bands around the United States competing for the honor.
   

MUSIC CONNECTION MAGAZINE RAVES ABOUT LARRY "FUZZY" KNIGHT'S BLOWIN' SMOKE RHYTHM AND BLUES REVUE

Music Connection reviewer Tim Reid Jr. writes, "(bandleader Fuzzy) Knight must know a thing or two about putting the right pieces in place to make a show, as he has done in this case. Even with a couple of subs in the horn section, the clear fact is that Knight is going to present true professionals whenever Blowin' Smoke takes the stand. Knight himself is a quality bass player and bluesy singer with an almost grittier Randy Newman kind of sound. The Fabulous Smokettes live up to their name - working the harmonies and each singer knowing how to take the spotlight when it hits. "Fuzzy" Knight reminds all of us in the modern technological era that real people with real instruments and real personalities playing music that hits the gut and forces the knees to bend...it makes one happy to be alive and in the community of other living people."


"Cross Soul Train with American Bandstand and you get a good idea
of what a Blowin' Smoke Rhythm & Blues Revue show is like!"  

   For nearly two decades, Blues/R&B/Soul group Blowin' Smoke has been one of the most in-demand, successful bands on the Southern California live music circuit. Front and center in Blowin' Smoke is its creator, bandleader/bassist/vocalist, Larry "Fuzzy" 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.  Knight has also recently launched a new band project, Sky King, featuring some top-name musicians, all the while keeping Blowin' Smoke going strong. 

  Here's Blowin' Smoke performing Aretha Franklin's "Something's Gold A Hold On Me" recently at Harvelle's. 


                            www.blowinsmokeband.com

Last chance to catch HAMILTON LOOMIS & band!

TEXAS: This weekend is your last chance to catch Hamilton & Band before their Sept. Europe tour! All tour dates are at www.hamiltonloomis.com/schedule.html

8/28/14 Kemah, TX Jackie's Brickhouse 8pm 832-864-2459


8/29/14 Corpus Christi, TX Executive Surf Club 9pm 361-884-7873


8/30/14 Tomball, TX Main Street Crossing 8pm 281-290-0431 TICKETS


Please forward this email to any of your friends/family in these cities!!

Vote for the Blues Blast Music Awards!

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BLUES FANS: VOTE FOR THE BLUES BLAST MUSIC AWARDS!

Voting for the 2014 Blues Blast Music Awards is now open to anyone who is a Blues Blast magazine subscriber. Subscriptions are FREE and an automatic part of the voting process on the website. Blind Pig artists and recordings are well represented on the ballot:
"REMEMBERING LITTLE WALTER"
Traditional Blues Album
Unequaled live tribute to the harmonica icon from five of the finest harp players on the current blues scene - Billy Boy Arnold, Charlie Musselwhite, Mark Hummel, Sugar Ray Norcia, and James Harman.  The album was named winner of two major 2014 Blues Music Awards - "Best Traditional Album" "Album of the Year." It also received a 2014 Grammy nomination for "Best Blues Album."
BILLY BRANCH  
Song of the Year - "Going To See Miss Gerri One More Time"
“Going To See Miss Gerri One More Time” is a moving song about a lost chapter in the cultural history of Chicago’s black population, the story of Gerri Oliver, long-time proprietor of the Palm Tavern in Chicago’s Bronzeville neighborhood, an area rich with African-American history that’s been called the ‘Harlem of the Midwest’  Much of that history unfolded in the legendary nightspot that Gerri presided over from 1956 until the city shut it down in 2001.
In its heyday, the Palm Tavern was the hot spot for celebrities such as Duke Ellington, Louis Armstrong, Sammy Davis, Jr., Count Basie, Billie Holiday, Nat King Cole, Quincy Jones, and Dinah Washington.  It was, in short, as the Chicago Tribune put it, “a landmark in Chicago history and American musical culture.”
The song, written by Billy Branch, is the centerpiece of Blues Shock, the first studio CD from the three-time Grammy nominee with his band in fifteen years.  Living Blues said the composition is “nothing less than the story of the Great Migration itself, exemplified in the life trajectory of one remarkable woman…by any objective standard, both an eloquent piece of storytelling and an appropriate tribute.” Branch calls it simply “the best song I’ve ever written.”
To watch a concept video of the song, please click HERE.
DAMON FOWLER
Sean Costello Rising Star Award
Song of the Year - "Old Fools, Bar Stools, and Me"
Damon Fowler has emerged as on the foremost practitioners of American roots music.  No Depression said, "A blend of sacred steel, backwater blues and howling, greasy swamp rock, Fowler's music is a primal, atavistic sound that makes the hair on the back of your neck stand up.  Hittin' the Note magazine called him "one soul-oozin', rock 'n' rollin', swamp stalkin' blue monster of a talent."
"Old Fools, Bar Stools, and Me" is a track from his latest release, Sounds of Home, which was produced by swamp blues master Tab Benoit.
To watch a live performance of this song, please click HERE.
SHAWN HOLT AND THE TEARDROPS
New Artist Debut Album - "Daddy Told Me"
Shawn Holt is the son of the late legendary blues master, Magic Slim.
  Fronting his old man's band, Shawn carries on Slim's unique sound and legacy with his debut recording, Daddy Told Me.  The album quickly rose to the #1 slot on the Living Blues radio chart and has been critically acclaimed.  Vintage Guitar said it is "hard to beat this strong debut."   
The album won the prestigious 2014 Blues Music Award for "Best New Artist Debut."  The high energy, hard-driving sound of the Teardrops is still alive and well with Shawn.  The Chicago Blues Guide said that Shawn has "proved conclusively he has what it takes to maintain the family legacy."
To vote for the Blues Blast Music Awards, please click HERE.

Soul Sound Records artist: Markey Blue - Hey Hey - New Release Review

I just received the newest release (September 16, 2014), Hey Hey, from Markey Blue and it has style. Opening with When Loves Comes Along reminding me a bit of a BB King track with more swing. I Can't Let You Go is a R&B style ballad with sweet guitar riffs from Latina and cool horn and keyboard backing. Something's Wrong again has a R&B feel with nice horn punctuation. A strong radio contender with a solid melody and a hook, this is a straight seller. Feeling Blue has a strong strut, cool backing vocals by Holly Steele, a stinging guitar solo from Latina and super horn work making it one of my favorites on the release. Flames has a real Billy Preston feel from the key style to the rhythmic beat. Latina again steps up with clean guitar riffs echoed against electric piano. Very cool. Play Me has a real nice groove and Markey's vocals are as clean as they come on this release. Another track that could garner a bit of airplay, features Jack Pearson on guitar. Another Lover really quiets down the pace and slips into a solid soul feel. Solid guitar work by Latina on this track adds a strong contrast against the overall mellow feel of the track pushing Markey into the next level. With You is another really nice track reminding me of earlier times with Jo Baker with Elvin Bishop. Nice backing vocals and guitar riffs cushioned by a bed of horns makes for another of the best tracks on the release. Ain't No Angel crosses over to rock with an easy sway. Nightclub styling and full orchestration with horns, organ, guitar, bass and drums gives it a powerful impact. By My Side is another strait forward radio track and could easily get strong radio play with it's catchy melody and easy beat. Wrapping the release is Baby I'm Cryin' has a R&B styling but strong blues roots along the lines of Robert Cray. A strong closer, it's one of the strongest vocal performances on the release with really warm backing vocals and clean guitar and organ additions.

  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”

 

Wednesday, August 27, 2014

Hokahey Records artist: Micke Bjorklof & Blue Strip - After The Flood - New Release Review

I just received the most recent release, After The Flood, from Micke Bjorklof & Blue Strip and it rocks. Opening with House For The Blues, a blues rocker, Vocalist Bjorklof and guitarist Lefty Leppanen set a strong pace backed by Teemu Vuorela on drums, Seppo Nuolikoski on bass and Timo Ruiko-Jukela on percussion. On Jack The Black Hat, the band takes a more expansive journey with heavier vocals, distorted guitars and free wheelin guitar work. Cool! Water From Your Shoe is a solid R&B style pop track with a taste of New Orleans featuring super cool piano work from Brian Coogan. Woogie Or Die is an interesting boogie track with a cool bass line. Soaring slide guitar work from Lefty give this track a sharp edge and Bjorklof's vocals with his edgy harp playing adds to the edge. Understanding opens with a slip sliding guitar part and a Latin influenced drum part. Having the flavor of a traditional western theme song with a twist, and backing vocals by Michaela Harrison and Alexis Marceaux, this is one of my favorite tracks on the release. King Alcohol is a melancholy track with bluesy overtones and subtle instrumental accompaniment, especially tasty guitar riffs. Sometimes is a boogie with a different kind of walking of bass line. A cool rocker, Bjorklof does some of his best vocal work here, complimented by Coogan on Hammond, and a solid rocker is the result. Gumbo Mama has a nice funky march beat and spirited vocals with punctuated vocal backing. Lefty lays on the wah wah adding a cool guitar texture and a little smoke to the funk. Really nice! Jezebel has a cocky strut and Bjorklof really hits it square on vocals on this track. Lefty grinds out some of the best guitar work on the release on this track. Very nice! Ramblified falls back to a delta style with rudimentary raw vocals and primitive National Steel guitar riffs. Cool! After The Flood is a smooth Latin influenced rocker with a lot of polish. Percussion by Ruiko-Jukela, nice guitar riffs by lefty and warm vocal backing by Harrison and Marceaux. A solid radio track with a solid melody. Wrapping the release is Open Up Open, a bluesy ballad with an ethereal guitar vamp in the background. Nicely blended backing vocals add substantially to the overall effect of this track but overall, Lefty really shines on this track making it his best showcase.

  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”

 

Tuesday, August 26, 2014

Hokahey Records artists: Micke & Lefty Featuring Chef - Up The Wall - New Release Review

I just received the newest release, Up The Wall, by Micke & Lefty (Featuring Chef). Opening with acoustic ballad, You Better Me, Micke Björklöf on vocals, drums&percussion, harmonica, guitar, Lefty Leppänen on vocals, acoustic- and national steel guitar and Chef on vocals and bass sing in incredibly sweet harmony. I'm A Guitar Man is an acoustic track featuring alternating vocal leads and hard driving Texas style boogie. Lead resonator guitar soloing by Lefty is quick and clean. Up The Wall has a simple country blues feel with cool guitar and harp riffs under vocal lead by Micke, and clean bass and drums. Clean Up opens with a cool slide riff and had a early sixties rockabilly feel. Slick slide work throughout and clever vocal backing make this one of toe coolest tracks yet. Come Here Pretty Baby again showcases cool vocal harmonies and clever guitar finger work. Ultimate All Around Man has a bit of a Cajun feel with a light march beat from Micke. With it's light springy feel and Lefty's cool resonator work and lead vocals make this a radio likely favorite. Good Friend has the feel of a contemporary "old style" country blues. Nice acoustic 12 string by lefty and harp work by Micke highlight this track. Busy really has a fast paced rhythm with train like rhythm and slick country infused blues guitar riffs. Very nice! Attention again rubs up against the rockabilly fence with rim shots and vocal harmonies. Nicely coordinated guitar and harp lead gives this track additional spunk. You Know has a really nice bass opening by Chef. With a general feel of St James Infirmary, this is a cool dramatic track with nice vocal harmonies, a willowy harp solo from Micke and spatial pedal steel work from Lefty. Good Ol' Train has a real country flavor with soft country vocals and featuring a really sweet guitar solo from Lefty. Pablo Grolin also adds a cool organ part throughout. Tony Joe White's Poke Salad Annie gets a more Latin feel but maintaining an acoustic sympathy and slide guitar overdrive. Nice take on a classic track. Wrapping the track is Don't Take It So Hard, a melodic ballad. Again strong vocal harmonies highlighted by Lefty on guitar, banjo and mandolin define this track. A full bluegrass breakdown provides a fitting close for 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”

 

Monday, August 25, 2014

Flaming Cheese Records artist: The Jordan Patterson Band - The Back On Track Recording Project - New Release Review

I just received the newest release, The Back On Track Recording Project, from The Jordan Patterson Band and it's quite enjoyable. Opening with hard driving blues rocker, Play My Song, features solid vocals from Patterson and a tight rocking unit behind him. Darryl Romphf (guitar), Shawn Kellerman (guitar), Darius McKinley (bass) and Benjamin Rollo (drums) provide a really powerful backing for Patterson's vocal and harmonica work. Don't Take Me Down is a rolling rocker and the more I listen to this band the more I appreciate the tight drumming of Rollo. He is not only on top of it, he's all over it. Excellent! With a driving ZZ Top kind of feel but with more polish (and might I say a lot more interesting than their pop stuff) this band hits the road running hard. If You'd Help Me Please gets down in the mud with a solid blues number showing hot guitar riffs and slide. With traces of Foghat and a bit of grit, this is one of my favorite tracks on the release. Patterson shows muich more clearly on this track that he has strong roots in the blues and his harp work is really nice. Wrapping the release is Heartbreaker, another grinding blues rock track with a cool bass riff by McKinley. Guitar attack on this track really gives it a lot of grunt and Pattersons vocals are spotless. With a taste of ZZ Top, a dose of Paul Rogers, strong writing and 5 excellent musicians, this really is a great start. An excellent conclusion to a very solid 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”

 

Sunday, August 24, 2014

Minnie The Moocher - The Fabulous Booze Brothers Show Band and Revue

Ted (Bundy) and Andy (Shack) have been talking about doing a Blues Brothers tribute for the past 20 years or so. Finally, one night over a couple of beers they decided to move forward with the project. They called their old "bandmates" from previous projects: Brian Solomon, David Schroeder (Schro) and Kurt Fleckenstein (Jorge) who were instantly on board and excited. After two years of changes in the horn section due to folks moving for jobs or leaving for Afghanistan (and thankfully returning home safe and sound), the Booze Brothers are happy to present Brian Dahm, Jeremy Ketter, Marty Herchko, Greg Sloan and Dan Rusnak as the horn line up for this project. The band rounded it out and added Rich Risnear on keys in February of 2014. Our love of the music the Blues Brothers band has produced (or reproduced) has brought us together. We hope you share our love for this timeless music and enjoy our shows as much as we enjoy performing for you. EVERYBODY GET RIPPED!!!!!!  

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”

 

Friday, August 22, 2014

Cuts Music Group artist: Woody Russell - Delicious Days - New Release Review

I just received the newest release, Delicious Days, from Woody Russell and it's quite good! Opening with Light Like That I think how smooth this guy is. With a Todd Rundgren like voice and Philly style of music, this is very strong. Russell, who plays guitar and sings, is joined by Bryce Powell (keys), Brady Muckelroy (bass), Chris Hausler (drums), Jose Ruiz (harmonica) and Dez Desormeaux (sax). In The Open has a looser less Philly but still soulful feel with an open rhythm. Hausler leads the way with crisp drumming and Ruiz adds a nice harp solo but this is all about the silky style of Russell as a vocalist. Just Playing Along has a really nice groove (think Low Down)and Russell knows how to work it. With it's light jazzy feel and Russell's vocals all you need are some spanking guitar riffs and they are here too! Powell lays in a sparkling electric piano solo giving the track even more interest and Dez hits the note on sax. Very nice! Genuine Good has a more composed feel with layered vocals and an irregular rhythm pattern. Near Miss has a distinctive jazzy pop feel but with a super vocal track. I genuinely like Russell's vocal sound and attack. It is not my standard fare but nothing is. With just a touch of funk and tight instrumentals this is a nice addition to the release. Steady On puts me more in thought of recent Steely Dan with warm vocal backing giving it real depth. Muckelroy drives the bass on this track and really hot drums from Hausler make this track even more interesting. Enough Is As Good As A Feast is a bit more solemn and beautifully composed. I want to fall back to Rundgren as an example because I personally believe that he composed some of the most haunting melodies of our generation. This track has that plus a certain sophistication of Mark/Almond. A real nice sax solo from Dez ices this track. Excellent! At The Very Least is a simple pop ballad with particularly nice guitar synth and sax components... but this is really all about the composition and the voice. Very nice! Next Move has a cool light feel with that funky, moody edge. Ruiz adds nicely with his harmonica work and tight rhythm is particularly effective. You Should See It From Here has so much pop potential that I could see it as a television theme song. Bursts of guitar intensity breaks a primarily vocal melody. Wrapping the release is title track, Delicious Days. A serious ballad with smooth vocals, dabs of piano and sax texture and light percussion make this a very nice finish to a very cool 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”

 

Thursday, August 21, 2014

Tim Gartland - Million Stars - New Release Review

I just received the newest release (September 9, 2014), Million Stars, from Tim Gartland. Having more of an R&B attack on the blues, Gartland, joined by Tom West (Keys), Chris Rival (guitars), Paul Justice (bass) and Forrest Padgett (drums) present a very smooth soulful set. Opening with Let Me Keep The Dog is a well balanced track showcasing Gartland on harp and vocals, his voice being somewhat stark and interesting. Off Of My Mind is an upbeat track sounding a bit like a Billy Preston track (rhythmically). Again, Gartland has a real nice voice for the style of music and organ work by West supports the body quite well. Gartland's vocals have been compared to Jimi and on Mess Me Up, the phrasing and timbre do sound similar. A cool track with airy guitar riffs this track has a nice texture and a nice bridge featuring West and Rival on solos. When The Next Wind Blows has a funky rhythm and a cool bass line by Justice. Talking about universal appeal, this would be the track. Gartland lays down a nice harp solo and West plays a nice piano sounding quite like Randall Bramblett in style. I Should Have Cared Less is one of my favorites tracks on the release with a rich spiritual feel. Accentuated by nice organ and piano work from West, this track just has that something special. Two Rights Make A Wrong is built along the lines of a Curtis Mayfield composition with strong but neutral organ work. Rival plays some very clean jazzy style guitar riffs making this track stand out even more. Better The Foot Slip has a bit of modern southern funk rock. Again, vocal phrasing makes you think briefly of Jimi but the warmth of the organ keeps you in line. Another of my favorites, this track gets a really nice groove. Gartland plays some Johnathan Edwards like harp work, keeping it easy but cool. Title track, Million Stars, resembles Let It Bleed and how could that be bad. With a taste of New Orleans and a taste of country another fun track. Tippin' Time is built around a really nice bass riff by Justice but with nice lead harp work from Gartland. Again Rival steps up with clean guitar riffs and Padgett holds it tight as West pushes you back with powerful organ work. Nice instrumental. Shine Your Loving Light is a solid ballad with clean accompaniment by West on keys. Simple harp riffs and driving clean bass runs add to this simple radio style track. I Can Add had a distinctive Willie Dixon feel and of course solid bass work. The bluesiest track on the release makes way for Gartland to really dig in on the blues harp. West skillfully weaves a nice piano pattern throughout the track as well a a clean solo. Slide guitar from Rival also gives it some grit. Wrapping the release is Shake It Nina, boogie track with a healthy helping of harp and a does of organ over the driving beat of Justice and Padgett.

 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”

 

Wednesday, August 20, 2014

Main Squeeze Records artist - Missy Andersen - In The Moment - New Release Review

I just received the newest release, In The Moment, from Missy Andersen and it scratches a lot of itches. Opening with Rent Party is a cool blues swing track with a touch of jazz. Heine Andersen lays out a nice guitar solo and Sue Palmer is tight on piano. Horn work from Robbie Smith (trumpet), Gerrard Nolan (tenor sax) and Bob Mathes (Bari sax) give it a bit of a club feel. Whole Lotta Nuthin' has a New Orleans feel with marching style drums from Marty Dodson and Ben Moore lays down some nice B3 work. Heine cooks the frets on this track with some hot jazzy riffs. On Latin styled Night Stalker Andersen again plays into a 40's - 50's sophistication. She really has a strong voice and has strong support from vocalists Sonja Mack and Karen Trapane. R&B track More Than Enough has a really strong presence and Andersen's vocals are top notch. Light instrumental accompaniment of light drums and B3 and punctuation but the horn section makes this one of my release favorites. Better Or Worse has a bit of a Chicago blues style featuring James Harman on harp and Nathan James on guitar. On No Regrets, roots in gospel can be heard cemented in Andersen's vocal styling and the warm B3 key work from Moore. Very nice! Same Things Make You Laugh Will Make You Cry is a R&B style number with great delivery from Andersen. Soild rhythm work, B3 backing and horns give this a true feeling of the age of R&B. Reach Out is an easy going blues number with a real twist of gospel. I really like Anderson's feel on this track and the backing vocals of Mack and Trapane as well as the nice walking bass line of Michael McKinnon and stirring guitar solo by Heine Andersen make this one of the most memorable tracks on the release. Ladies Shoes is a real down and dirty blues number with Andersen digging in deep. I really like the contributions of Heine Andersen on guitar on this track which are inspired. Funky rhythms on Hey Now! highlighting the percussion work of Christopher Hoffee and Moore on B3 nicely compliment Andersen's vocal work. Wrapping the track is I've Been Walkin' gets a nice "revival" feel going but with a bit of twang. Nice vocal call and response between Andersen and Mack/Trapane and strong support from Sue Palmer on piano and Marty Dodson make this a real uplifting end to a cool 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”