Sax Legend BIG JAY MCNEELY Blows His Brains Out On This Live CD/DVD Recorded in 1989 At The World Famous Palomino Club!

Sax Legend BIG JAY MCNEELY Blows His Brains Out On This Live CD/DVD Recorded in 1989 At The World Famous Palomino Club!

Los Angeles, CA - Hot on the heels of his blockbuster comeback album, Blowin’ Down The House - Big Jay’s Latest & Greatest, R&B vocalist and the King Of Honking Sax, Big Jay McNeely, announces this incredible concert recording from 1989 to be released in a multi-media package September 15. Honkin’ & Jivin’ At The Palomino features a killer concert performance put together as part of Ronnie Mack’s well-loved Barn Dance, an musical showcase that drew everyone from Bruce Springsteen to Screamin’ Jay Hawkins. The set pulls from multiple decades of soul, pop, rock & R&B, here given a bit of the country swing and twang by the amazing Barn Dance band that includes Ronnie Mack himself! The video footage proves that Big Jay’s showmanship never diminished as he entreats and cajoles the audience to dance, sing and shout along with him through such barn-burners as “I Can’t Stop Loving You,” “All That Wine Is Gone,” “Pretty Girls Everywhere” and Big Jay’s own smash hit single “There Is Something On Your Mind!” The DVD even includes a bonus interview with Big Jay speaking candidly about his long and influential career.

Big Jay McNeely’s incredible career began in the ‘40s and saw him play with several major R&B and blues legends of the late ‘40s and early ‘50s such as Little Richard, B.B. King, Etta James and Junior Wells. He scored his first major hit with the 1949 smash hit instrumental “Deacon’s Hop” and scored again with a R&B vocal ballad “There Is Something On Your Mind” featuring Little Sonny Warner. He pioneered the flamboyant playing style called “honking” and is widely acknowledged as one of the first musical entertainers to make showmanship an important element of the live concert experience. His music continues to be an important signifier for that early era, earning McNeely gigs at major festivals both here and abroad as well as having his music featured in the 2013 Sean Penn film Gangster Squad starring and last year’s biopic Trumbo starring Bryan Cranston.

Catch Big Jay perform at a very special record release party at Cody’s Viva Cantina in Burbank, CA on September 17. For more information, visit: http://windsorlivemusic.com/

Track List:

1. Palomino Hop

2. I Can't Stop Loving You

3. All That Wine Is Gone

4. There Is Something On Your Mind

5. Pretty Girls Everywhere

6. Honky Tonk

7. Young Girl Blues

8. Big Jay Shuffle

Buy the CD: http://flyt.it/BigJayMcNeelyCD

Buy the Vinyl: https://www.amazon.com/Honkin-Jivin-Palomino-MCNEELY-BIG/dp/B073W3M9HD

Buy the digital version: https://itunes.apple.com/us/album/honkin-jivin-at-the-palomino-live/id1276263965

Facebook: Cleopatra Blues

https://www.facebook.com/Cleopatra-Blues-584680441701352/?fref=ts

Twitter: Cleopatra Blues

https://twitter.com/cleopatrablues

Dry River - Prayin' for the Rain - New Release Review

I just had the opportunity to review the most recent release, Prayin' for the Rain, by Dry River and it's quiet and introspective. Opening with Lift This Stone, singer/guitarist Oliver Althoen performs a real nice contemporary Robert Johnson like track with the assistance of harmonica player, Dave Forrest. Very cool. Lost in the World is a solid blues rocker with tight drum work by Ruben Oridano, solid bass work by Joel Helin and firm vocals by Althoen. With an interesting guitar line and firm footing, the track sounds a bit in the vein of a stripped down early Led Zep. Hildegard is a really strong ballad with Althoen on guitar and vocal, joined by Forrest on harp and Jeremy Hatch on keys. One of my favorites on the release. Rocker, Lovesick Blues has real swagger and just a dash of country. With cool, low key electric guitar rhythm and harp lead, this is another of the standout tracks on the release. Lay Down and Die has super blues ballad bones giving Althoen the opportunity to show his pipes and soulful harp work by Forrest floats throughout the track. Shine Your Light On Me has a strong melody, vocal harmonies with Paula Gabriel. Wrapping the release is acoustic ballad, Who Am I, featuring Althoen and Gabriel on vocal harmonies, Althoen on guitar and Hatch on piano. A solid track to close a 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”

 For added exposure - Blues World Wide Group "LIKE" 

 

“Like” Bman’s Facebook page and get support for your favorite band or venue - click HERE

Jason Buie - Driftin' Heart - New Release review

I just had the opportunity to review the most recent release, Driftin' Heart, from Jason Buie, and I really like it. Opening with loping blues driver, Fool From The Very Start, Buie shows great feel and tone, backed by John Hunter on drums, George Fenn on bass and Dave Webb on keys. Excellent! On House Party, a cool boogie with a walking bass line, Buie definitely hits a nice groove. His guitar soloing is slick, complimented nicely by a cool piano solo by Webb. Jump track, Westcoast Daddy, is fluid and rocking! R&B track has a fat thumb of New Orleans giving Buie a great opportunity to show his vocal prowess and stinging blues riffs. Very nice. another R&B flavored blues track, Suits Me To A Tee, has a great bottom and clean, articulate guitar runs. Albert King's guitar is channeled big time on 12 O'Clock Check Out. Heavy bends and beautiful phrasing makes this one of my favorites on the release. Wrapping the release is Jesse Mae Robinson's Cold, Cold Feeling. Buie really lays it open on this one with blistering riffs floating in a lush sea of B3 by Webb. Excellent closer for a really strong 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”

 For added exposure - Blues World Wide Group "LIKE" 

 

“Like” Bman’s Facebook page and get support for your favorite band or venue - click HERE

Upisland Records artist: Andrew Chapman a.k.a. JoJo - Well, It's About Time - New Release Review

I just had the opportunity to review the most recent release, Well, It's About Time, from Andrew Chapman a.k.a JoJo and it's solid. Opening with Louisiana funky, That's The Kind Of Day I Had Today. JoJo on lead vocals slides right into the slot with Terry Wilson on bass, John Herron on piano and featuring excellent slide work from Stephen Bruton and excellent drum work from Tony Braunagel and fine backing vocals by Teresa James and Shake Russell. Very cool! Solid radio track, Still Got The Message has a cool vocal hook, super guitar soloing by Billy Watts, really nicely woven instrumentation and tight rhythms by Braunagel. The Fit & The Feel has a Harry Nilsson feel with and cool underlying pop feel and James on backing vocals. Another funky rocker is She Don't Mess With My Buzz written by bassist Terry Wilson, with nice slide work by Watts, Jeff Paris on keys and James Christie on drums. Cool rocker, Bag of Bones has a cool boogie pace with Braunagel on drums, Wilson on bass, Watts on lead guitar and James on piano. Wrapping the release is Chapman composed, Butterfly which has the strengths of a well written Lindsay Buckingham or Leon Russell track. Mellow and nicely performed, a suitable closer for a 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”

 For added exposure - Blues World Wide Group "LIKE" 

 

 “Like” Bman’s Facebook page and get support for your favorite band or venue - click HERE

Steely Dan founder and guitarist, Walter Becker, has passed. My thoughts are with his family.

Walter Becker, the guitarist and bassist for the popular rock band Steely Dan, died Sunday. He was 67.
News of Becker's death was confirmed by a tribute post on his official website, though no cause of death was given.
Becker was forced to bow out of two Steely Dan performances earlier this month after undergoing an unidentified "procedure," according to bandmate Donald Fagen.
Fagen released a heartfelt statement on the passing of his longtime collaborator, praising Becker's skills as a musician and his killer sense of humor.

"Walter Becker was my friend, my writing partner and my bandmate since we met as students at Bard College in 1967," Fagen wrote. "Walter had a very rough childhood — I'll spare you the details. Luckily, he was smart as a whip, an excellent guitarist and a great songwriter. He was cynical about human nature, including his own, and hysterically funny. Like a lot of kids from fractured families, he had the knack of a creative mimicry, reading people's hidden psychology and transforming what he saw into bubbly, incisive art."
He added, "I intend to keep the music we created together alive as long as I can with the Steely Dan band."
The Queens-bred Becker and Fagen launched their musical legacy together in the early '70s.

After working as songwriters penning tunes for artists like Barbra Streisand, they formed Steely Dan — named after a strap-on dildo mentioned in the William S. Burroughs novel "Naked Lunch" — and in 1972, released their debut album, "Can't Buy a Thrill."
Throughout the decade, they rose to fame with hits like "Reelin' in the Years," "Rikki Don't Lose That Number" (though Fegan once said he and Becker weren't very fond of the track) and "Dirty Work," which would go on to become classic rock staples thanks to their jazzy tunes and clever lyrics, often steeped in black humor and irony.
Looking back on the band’s success throughout the ‘70s, Becker said in 1993 that the music Steely Dan churned out over the years ultimately helped set him up for life

“I would say that basically I’m still resting on those laurels quite comfortably,” he said. “It opens doors. When I meet people and players for the first time, they’re already on my side. It’s been just a very good and very positive influence on people I meet and work with.”
Disputes over personal and legal troubles caused the band to part ways in 1981 after seven albums together, but Steely Dan ultimately rejoined forces in 1993 and have spent the last two decades touring.
“In truth, our original bit was put together very quickly, and it got kind of frantic in the first couple of years of touring and making records. I guess we figured we’d be deceased at an early date, so we figured we’d cool it for a few decades,” Fagen told Rolling Stone in 2013 of Steely Dan’s bumpy road.
The band was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 2001 after a career spanning nearly four decades, nine Grammy nominations and three wins, all three of which came in 2000 for the album "Two Against Nature."
Becker enjoyed a brief solo career as well, releasing “11 Tracks of Whack” in 1994 during a stint living in Hawaii as an avocado rancher, and his final album, “Circus Money,” in 2008.
During press tours for his debut solo album, Becker explained that he was enjoying his time out of the spotlight and embracing the role of family man.
“The perfect day for me is waking up and having a cup of tea with my kids before I drive them to school, then I go into the studio and try and write some music for three or four hours and give up about noon,” he told Jazziz in 1993.
But he remained a vocal fan of his time spent on-stage with Fagen, which helps explain the band’s longevity and their passion for touring.
“It’s just such a good band and magic stuff happens all the time, and there’s stuff that happens when you’re playing together where you get into a kind of group mind that’s very thrilling,” Becker said in 2008 of touring with Steely Dan. “I’m sure that other people experience the same kind of thing in all sorts of other realms, but for me, it happens when I’m playing with other people.”

Mark One Records artist: Milligan-Vaughan Project - New release review

I just had the opportunity to review the most recent release, MVP, from the Milligan - Vaughan Project and it's a cool rocker. Opening with Soul Satisfaction, lead vocalist Malford Milligan teams up with guitarist Tyrone Vaughan for a classic rocker, backed by Chris Maresh on bass, and Brannen Temple on drums. Shuffle track, Driving You, has a cool saunter and low slung guitar work from Vaughan sets the track off nicely. Buddy Guy's, Leave My Girl Alone, is one of my favorite tracks with super gritty vocals and creamy guitar tones. Vaughan really cuts loose on this one with voracious guitar soloing, backed by Temple on drums, Jay Stiles on keys, Jorge Castillo on guitar and Jeff Hayes on bass. Classic jazz track, Compared To What, made popular by Les McCann and Eddie Harris finds new wheels here with solid vocals, a vibrant solo by Vaughan and electric keys by Michael Ramos. Another really nice track is original, Devil's Breath with soulful vocals by Milligan and stinging guitar riffs over heavy bass by Temple. Wrapping the release is Leon's Palace Of the King. Using Leon like guitar phrasing and powerful R&B vocals, this is a real strong closer for a cool new 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”

 For added exposure - Blues World Wide Group "LIKE" 

 

“Like” Bman’s Facebook page and get support for your favorite band or venue - click HERE

CHARLIE PARR Stream the new album, "Dog" premiering at Folk Alley's "Hear it First"  Featuring the blistering picking, offbeat characters and raw emotion that has made him a cult favorite Dog set for release September 8; pre-order at iTunes and Amazon Parr announces fall tour dates including AmericanaFest   August 30, 2017: Charlie Parr is premiering his latest album, Dog, as a "Hear It First" selection at Folk Alley. Dog, out on September 8 on Red House, features the blistering picking, offbeat characters and honest emotion that has made him a cult favorite. It's raw, even painful at times, as on the darkly humorous "Pleasant Valley," sung from the point of view of a hoarder and the title track, which examines the way we treat our fellow creatures.  Stream Dog here in its entirety  Fans who have been following Charlie through his previous 13 full-length albums and years of nonstop touring already know that the Duluth, MN-based songwriter has a way of carving a path straight to the gut. On Dog, however, he seems to be digging deeper and hitting those nerves quicker than ever before on these songs dealing with homelessness, mental health issues and the quest for understanding. It turns out that Charlie’s been grappling with his own demons. “I had some really, really bad depression problems over the last couple years,” he explains. “I've been trying to get fit, trying not to drink so much, trying not to do the rock 'n' roll guy thing. And then I got depressed. Really depressed. And to me, depression feels like there's me, and then there's this kind of hazy fog of rancid jello all around me, that you can't feel your way out of. And then there's this really, really horrible third thing, this impulsive thing, that doesn't feel like it's me or my depression. It feels like it's coming from outside somewhere. And it's the thing that comes on you all of a sudden, and it's the voice of suicide, it's the voice of ‘quit.’” “These songs have all kind of come out of that. Especially songs like ‘Salt Water’ and ‘Dog,’ they really came heavily out of just being depressed, and having to say something about it.” Despite the album’s darker moments, it's also a reflection on how far he’s come — and that he's accepted that some things are simply unknowable. Charlie is on tour throughout 2017. Highlights include two nights at the Cedar Cultural Center in Minneapolis, MN and multiple festival stops including AmericanaFest in Nashville on September 15. CHARLIE PARR on tour TH  9/7      Duluth, MN - Sacred Heart Music Center (with Dave Simonett) TH  9/14    Nashville, TN -  Family Wash - AmericanaFest FR  9/15    Mount Vernon, OH - Ohiolina Music Festival SA  9/16    Bristol, TN - Bristol Rhythm & Roots Reunion SU  9/17    Newport, KY - Southgate House WE  9/27    Pittsburgh, PA - Club Cafe FR   9/29    South Burlington, VT - Higher Ground MO  10/2    Cambridge, MA - Atwood’s Tavern WE  10/4    New York, NY - Mercury Lounge TH   10/5    Philadelphia, PA - Boot and Saddle SA  10/7     Milheim, PA - Elk Creek Cafe and Aleworks WE 10/11   Washington, DC - Black Cat TH  10/12   Roanoke, VA - 5 Points Music Sanctuary FR  10/13   Asheville, NC - The Mothlight TH  10/19    Indianapolis, IN - The HiFi SA  10/21    Chicago, IL - Schubas FR  10/27    Minneapolis, MN - The Cedar Cultural Center SA 10/28     Minneapolis, MN - The Cedar Cultural Center SA  12/16    Lake City, MN - Oak Center General Store Press: "Parr is a picker -- whether on National resonator guitars, dobro, or banjo -- who cut his musical teeth on Charley Patton, Woody Guthrie, and Lightnin' Hopkins, and his actual teeth on the canned meat packed at the Hormel plant in his hometown. Parr's songs ring out with a working class ethos and a welcome home energy."  - The Bluegrass Situation "Stumpjumper is a deep blues album first and foremost, but it’s Charlie Parr’s master craftsmanship at fingerpicking rhythms, and his folk-leaning songwriting that has liberated him from specific categorization." - Saving Country Music "The native Minnesotan’s style can best be described as new music from an older time – sometimes dark and desolate, sometimes raucous and danceable." - Dan Forte (Vintage Guitar) “Among the contenders in the every burgeoning indie folk, or new folk, genre, there are a lot of pretenders and acts trying desperately to “look and play the part”, but five seconds in front of Charlie Parr and you know you’re dealing with the real thing.” - Jim Beckman (KEXP) “John Fahey described the music he collected on American Primitive Vol. 1 as ‘made under the influence of enthusiasm.’ The enthusiasm he spoke of was a kind of possession … Charlie Parr’s recordings, which make splendid companions to Fahey’s anthology, are similarly enthusiastic.” - Popmatters http://www.charlieparr.com Twitter Facebook Instagram

Kim Wilson Gets Back to Basics on "Blues and Boogie, Vol. 1" CD, Coming October 20 from Severn Records

Kim Wilson Gets Back to Basics on Blues and Boogie, Vol. 1 CD, Coming October 20 from Severn Records

ANNAPOLIS, MD – Legendary singer/harmonica master Kim Wilson has gone back to the basics and old school Chicago blues for his exciting new CD, Blues and Boogie, Vol. 1, coming October 20 from Severn Records. Blues and Boogie, Vol. 1 was produced by Kim Wilson, with most tracks  recorded and mixed by Nathan James at Sacred Cat Studios, Oceanside, California; except tracks 4 and 15 recorded by Big Jon at Big Tone Recording Studios, Hayward, California.

“I want to tell all of the real blues fans out there what a labor of love this project has been,” Wilson writes in the album’s liner notes. “I’ve been recording many, many tracks for a couple of years now and time has just flown by! A couple of the greatest musicians that ever lived, Richard Innes and Barrelhouse Chuck, have passed away during the process of making this CD. One of their dreams was to see this stuff come out.

“So here it is, the first of many to come. This kind of music is very easy and pleasurable for me to perform. I like to surround myself with musicians who like to ‘fly by the seat of their pants.’ People like Richard and Barrel, Billy Flynn, Big Jon Atkinson, Marty Dodson, Nathan James, Larry Taylor, Malachi Johnson and all of the other fantastic blues musicians who are on this CD. I desired to record songs that I have always wanted to do. However, I have to put my own twist on everything.”

The track list includes several Kim Wilson originals that fit like a hand-in-glove along with the deep blues songbook he delved into for the new disc, including tunes by Little Walter, Sonny Boy Williamson, Elmore James, John Lee Hooker, Jimmy Rogers, Magic Sam and Jimmy Reed.    

A founding member of the legendary Fabulous Thunderbirds and a multiple Blues Music Award winner as a solo artist, Wilson salutes many of his Chicago blues roots influences – in particular his harmonica mentors such as Little Walter, Sonny Boy Williamson and especially James Cotton – on Blues and Boogie, Vol. 1. It’s music that is both timely and timeless.  

“I’m dedicating this CD to my big brother, James Cotton,” Wilson says. “He has always been a great inspiration and a dear friend. When I was a kid, having a great time with all of the masters of this music, I never dreamt I would be living in a world without them. Every time I open my mouth to sing or pick up my instrument to play I am doing it for them! There are hundreds of tracks in the can and still recording, and I really believe that this period of time is the beginning of my legacy. I could never have done it without my family of masters who invented this music and the musicians who are on this CD. I hope you enjoy listening to it as much as I enjoyed making it!”

Kim Wilson and The Fabulous Thunderbirds are managed by Glen Parrish of GP Entertainment.

1. Bonus Boogie - vocals & harmonica: Kim Wilson; Guitars: Big Jon Atkinson, Bob Welsh; Bass: Troy Sandow; Drums: Malachi Johnson

2. No Love in My Heart - vocals & harmonica: Kim Wilson; Guitar: Nathan James; Piano: Barrelhouse Chuck; Bass: Big Jon Atkinson; Drums: Richard Innes; horns: Jonny Viau

3. Ninety Nine - vocals & harmonica: Kim Wilson; Guitars: Big Jon Atkinson, Nathan James; Piano: Barrelhouse Chuck; Drums: Richard Innes

4. Worried Life Blues - vocals & harmonica: Kim Wilson; Guitars: Billy Flynn, Big Jon Atkinson; Bass: Kadar Roy; Drums: Marty Dodson

5. You Upset My Mind - vocals & harmonica: Kim Wilson; Guitars: Big Jon Atkinson, Nathan James; Drums: Marty Dodson

6. Teenage Beat - vocals & harmonica: Kim Wilson; Guitars: Billy Flynn, Big Jon Atkinson; Piano: Barrelhouse Chuck; Bass: Larry Taylor; Drums: Richard Innes

7. Same Old Blues - vocals & harmonica: Kim Wilson; Guitar: Billy Flynn; Piano: Barrelhouse Chuck; Bass: Larry Taylor; Drums: Richard Innes; horns: Jonny Viau

8. Searched All Over - vocals & harmonica: Kim Wilson; Guitars: Billy Flynn, Big Jon Atkinson; Piano: Barrelhouse Chuck; Bass: Larry Taylor

9. From the Bottom - vocals & harmonica: Kim Wilson; Guitars: Big Jon Atkinson, Nathan James; Piano: Barrelhouse Chuck; Bass: Larry Taylor; Drums: Richard Innes

10. Look Whatcha Done - vocals & harmonica: Kim Wilson; Guitars: Bob Welsh, Big Jon Atkinson; Bass: Troy Sandow; Drums: Malachi Johnson

11. Blue and Lonesome - vocals & harmonica: Kim Wilson; Guitars: Big Jon Atkinson, Nathan James; Drums: Marty Dodson

12. Sho Nuf I Do - vocals & harmonica: Kim Wilson; Guitar: Big Jon Atkinson; Piano: Barrelhouse Chuck; Bass: Nathan James; Drums: Richard Innes; horns: Jonny Viau

13. Learn to Treat Me Right – vocals & harmonica: Kim Wilson; Guitars: Billy Flynn, Big Jon Atkinson; Piano: Barrelhouse Chuck; Bass: Larry Taylor; Drums: Richard Innes

14. Edgier vocals & harmonica: Kim Wilson; Guitars: Big Jon Atkinson, Nathan James; Bass: Nathan James; Drums: Marty Dodson

15. Mean Old Frisco - vocals & harmonica: Kim Wilson; Guitars: Big Jon Atkinson, Nathan James; Bass: Kadar Roy; Drums: Marty Dodson

16. You’re the One - vocals & harmonica: Kim Wilson; Guitars: Big Jon Atkinson, Nathan James; Drums: Marty Dodson

Ben Hunter & Joe Seamons with Phil Wiggins - A Black & Tan Ball - New Release review

I just had the opportunity to review the most recent release, A Black & Tan Ball, by Ben Hunter & Joe Seamons and it's strong. Opening with classic, Do You Call That A Buddy, Hunter on violin & Seamons on guitar along with Phil Wiggins create the sound of a fine wine with a really nice arrangement. Excellent! Georgian fiddler tune, Shangai Rooster really gets heels high in the air with harp, banjo and fiddle. Super jam. An exceptional hot jazz number, Struttin' With Some Barbeque, features Wiggins on harp trading lead with Hunter on violin with tight rhythm by Seamons on guitar. Very nice. Another super jazz number, Do Nothing Til You Hear From Me features solid vocals and excellent mandolin lead by Hunter and warm harmonica melodies by Wiggins. Guitar Rag is a great jam with Hunter on violin and Wiggins on harp again working with Seamons on guitar for an excellent track. Cool old blues track, Hard Time Blues holds tight and fast to original Lane Hardin styling with vocal, guitar, mandolin and harp. Particularly strong vocals on Bullfrog Blues makes this one of my favorites in the manner of William Harris. Wrapping the release is Stop & Listen Blues, a Mississippi Sheiks tune with great vocals, pure harp, authentic violin and solid guitar. This is a really strong release of authentic blues tracks. Check it out!

  If you support live Blues acts, up and coming Blues talents and want to learn more about Blues news and Fathers of the Blues, Like ---Bman’s Blues Report--- Facebook Page! I’m looking for great talent and trying to grow the audience for your favorites band! -  ”LIKE”

 For added exposure - Blues World Wide Group "LIKE" 

 

“Like” Bman’s Facebook page and get support for your favorite band or venue - click HERE

VizzTone Label Group artist: Chris "Bad News" Barnes - Hokum Blues - New Release Review

I just had the opportunity to review the most recent release, Hokum Blues, from Chris "Bad News" Barnes, and it's true to the old style 30's blues. Opening with Tampa Red's It Hurts Me Too, Barnes' vocals are solid with super slide work from Jimmy Vivino and Steve Guyer on harp, backed by Will Lee on bass, Shawn Pelton on drums and Bette Sussman on piano. Kicking it into swing mode and getting a little suggestive, Barnes struts Let Play With Your Poodle, featuring a real nice piano solo by Sussman and crisp guitar riffs by Vivino. Very nice. Prohibition style, I'm Gonna Get High, maintains a lot of the "prance" of the area and caller style vocals. Wild slide work on Bo Diddley rhythmed It's Tight Like That really gives this track a great presence. The Hokum Boys',You Can't Get Enough Of That Stuff, is one of my favorites on the release with cool vocal harmonies and easy going rhythm. With a Latin beat, Keep Your Mind On It has really nice percussion by Pelton and particularly nice guitar work by Vivino, topped off by cool piano twist by Sussman and a cool harp solo by Guyger. Another track with a pure 30's style, even a quasi megaphone sound, is Let Me Pat That Thing with it's suggestive yet funny lyrics. Another nice solo by Sussman on piano is topped off by cool trumpet work and a nice clarinet solo. A cool rocker by the Hokum Boys, Caught Him Doing It really has a nice rockabilly flair and strong solos by Vivino and Sussman. Closing with Tampa Red's Christmas and New Years, Barnes hits the spot on vocals and Vivino's slide work is thick and greasy. I cool closer for a nice retro style blues 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”

 For added exposure - Blues World Wide Group "LIKE" 

 

“Like” Bman’s Facebook page and get support for your favorite band or venue - click HERE

Red Parlor Records artist: Scott Ellison - Good Morning Midnight - New Release Review

I just had the opportunity to review the most recent release, Good Morning Midnight, from Scott Ellison and it's tasty! Opening with New Orleans flavored, Sanctified, Ellison is really hitting the road running. With Chris Campbell on lead vocal and Marcy Levy on backing vocal this band featuring Chuck Blackwell ripping up the drums, Gary Gilmore's funky bass line and hot guitar work by Ellison is smokin'. Soulful number, Gone For Good showcases Ellison on lead vocal and guitar with a strong radio presentation. Very nice. Reggae styling on Hope & Faith really sits down hard on Bob Marley's style. A really nice track with just the right groove features Jon Parris on bass, Danny Timms on B3 and terrific drum work by David Teegarden. One of my favorite tracks on the release is You Made A Mess (Outta Me) along the lines of Nickel and a Nail or Thrill Is Gone. With Jon Glazer on keys, Robbie Armstrong on drums, Jon Parris on bass and real nice lead vocal and guitar by Ellison, this track is super. On Wheelhouse with Mike Bennett on trumpet, Steve Ham on trombone, Robbie Armstrong on drums, Timms on piano and Parris on bass and Ellison on guitar, this is a really hot swinging jazz instrumental. Excellent! Lumbering rocker, Big City really kicks with heavy boots and Ellison's got attitude on vocal and guitar. Very nice. Wrapping the release is shuffle track, When You Love Me Like This, with solid vocals, cool harp by Jimmy Junior Markham, a great beat (Ron Martin - bass and Tim Smith - drums) spurred on by scorching guitar riffs by Ellison giving this just the right pressure to close a super entry by Ellison. 

  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”

 For added exposure - Blues World Wide Group "LIKE" 

 

“Like” Bman’s Facebook page and get support for your favorite band or venue - click HERE

Boston-Based Guitarist Peter Ward Sets October 20 Release Date for His New CD, "Blues on My Shoulders," on Gandy Dancer Records; Special Guests Include Ronnie Earl, Sugar Ray & the Bluetones and Sax Gordon Beadle

Boston-Based Guitarist Peter Ward Sets October 20 Release Date for His New CD, Blues on My Shoulders, on Gandy Dancer Records

Special Guests Include Ronnie Earl, Sugar Ray & the Bluetones and Sax Gordon Beadle

BOSTON, MA – Guitarist Peter Ward announces an October 20 release date for his new CD, Blues on My Shoulders, on Gandy Dancer Records. Besides Ward on guitar and vocals, special guests on the new disc include multiple Blues Music Award-winning guitar legend Ronnie Earl, Sax Gordon Beadle on sax and the members of Sugar Ray and the Bluetones: Sugar Ray Norcia (vocals and harmonica), “Monster” Mike Welch (guitar), Anthony Geraci (piano), Michael “Mudcat” Ward (Peter’s brother – bass) and Neil Gouvin (drums). 

“It pleases me to present Blues on My Shoulders, my first solo project,” Peter Ward says about the new album. “I wrote the words and music to 12 of the 13 songs. I grew up wearing out the vinyl records trying to understand how Robert Jr. Lockwood, Tiny Grimes, Louis Meyers and Jimmy Rogers made songs sound so good. It's what I wanted to do. I was lucky to sit in often with my friend (and former roommate) Ronnie Earl and play alongside many of my musical heroes. A highlight was touring with the Legendary Blues Band: Joe Willie ‘Pinetop’ Perkins, Willie ‘Big Eyes’ Smith, Calvin ‘Fuzz’ Jones and Jerry Portnoy, who had brilliantly backed Muddy Waters for years. The way they played blues was everything I believed in, then and now. Willie Smith was an inventive drummer — and a wily character. I pay tribute to him in the song, ‘Drummin' Willie.’ The track ‘Which Hazel’ is my homage to Chuck Berry. Sugar Ray Norcia honored me by singing the heck out of ‘Collaborate,’ a tribute to Lockwood and Lonnie Johnson. I appreciate that Ronnie Earl and Sax Gordon Beadle accepted my invitation to perform on two songs: ‘A Little More’ and ‘It's On Me.’ ‘Southpaw’ is my ode to lesser-known left-handed swing guitarist Dickie Thompson, who worked with organist and front man Wild Bill Davis. My instrumental, ‘Shiprock,’ reminds me of a hallowed part of Navajo country I visited with my wife Mai Cramer, who died of breast cancer in 2002 and previously hosted a popular blues program every weekend for 24 years on WGBH-FM. She was an avid supporter of the blues and its purveyors. I think she would have liked Blues on My Shoulders. I hope you do.”

As a teenager growing up in Lewiston, Maine, Peter and his brother Michael (“Mudcat”) listened intently to blues records and went to see Muddy Waters, Buddy Guy, Junior Wells, Taj Mahal and Hubert Sumlin whenever they performed in the area. Peter played blues with Mudcat and did gigs also with his younger brother Jeff, who died in 1991. “Jeff was too young to drink, but club owners would let him in so he could play bass with New York City drummer Ola Dixon and me,” Ward recalls.

Ward later moved to Boston and played in various bands, frequently sitting in with Sugar Ray & the Bluetones, who then featured his brother and Ronnie Earl, and backed blues artists such as Jimmy Rogers, Eddie ‘Cleanhead’ Vinson and Lowell Fulson.

“In the Big Apple, I was thrilled when Otis Rush told me I played chords like an ‘old man,’ Ward remembers. “In 1978, each week I drove across I-90 to Rochester, N.Y. to play blues for three nights with guitarist-vocalist Joe Beard. Beloved there, Joe had once been a neighbor of Son House. In the 1980s, I loved everything about touring with the Legendary Blues Band — the traveling and camaraderie, but especially the way we played blues in an unhurried, improvisational way. We recorded a CD for Rounder Records that featured Duke Robillard, whose brilliant guitar I had first heard at a high school dance.

“I married Mai Cramer, who spun records for Boston station WGBH-FM every weekend from 1978 until 2002, when she died of breast cancer. Her fans and I stage a fundraiser in her honor each spring for charity at the Regent Theatre in Arlington, Mass. Headliners have included Jody Williams, Luther ‘Guitar Junior’ Johnson, Lurrie Bell, Ron Levy and Eddie Taylor, Jr. In 2010, I produced Goodbye Liza Jane: Hello Western Swing, a CD of western swing (a cousin to the blues) with Herb Remington, an original member of Bob Wills and his Texas Playboys. In recent years I've begun writing songs, as I culled the many snippets of melodies and phrases stuck in my mind. It's fun to turn thoughts into songs and then sing them while people dance. It's been a blast, and it's not over.”

Fatmouth Records artist: Joshua Jacobson - Good Little Thing - New Release Review

I just had the opportunity to review the most recent release, Good Little Thing, by Joshua Jacobson and it's got a laid back bluesy feel. Opening with Baby's Mama Really Don't Care, Jacobson on guitar and vocal sets the pace with cool rag style piano by Chris Flowers. Matt Walker on bass and Aaron Fowler on percussion round out the band. With a cool saunter, Codependent Kate, has a nice feel with Mookie Brill on harp, Clark Stern on piano and Pedro Arevelo on bass. Stern's piano work on Long Lonesome Day really stand out nicely and Jacobson's vocals are solid and spot on. Long time Allman Brothers lead guitar player, Dickey Betts, sits in on electric guitar on Pistol Packin' Papa adding his signature style. Damon Fowler steps up on acoustic slide guitar on Bipolar Mama and with Aaron Fowler's clever percussion work makes it one of my favorites on the release. Curley Weaver's Ticket Agent is a great track played by the book with the addition of Allan Jolley on banjo. Very cool. Willie Cobbs' You Don't Love Me is another standout track with Brill on harp, Fowler on slide and Aaron Fowler on percussion. Best original on the release, Mind Blowin' Blues has the melody, solid vocals, Jacobson on slide with definite Allman influence and terrific percussion by Fowler. Swing tune, Baby It Must Be Love by Blind Willie McTell displays Jacobson nicest vocals and gives Stern another solo opportunity and he shines.  Wrapping the release is traditional track, Cross The River Jordan with Jacobson on vocal and slide. I really like his slide style and with his pure vocals makes this a super track to wrap this 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”

 For added exposure - Blues World Wide Group "LIKE" 

 

 “Like” Bman’s Facebook page and get support for your favorite band or venue - click HERE

Paradise Kings - Controlled Burn - New Release Review

I just had the opportunity to review the most recent release, Controlled Burn, from Paradise Kings and it's cool, tasteful rocker. Opening with '69 Chevy, Jeff Gring opens the pace with stylized rock n roll guitar riffs joined by George Lambert on drums, Michael Robertson on bass and Henry Garrett on lead vocals. Cool swingin' track. On shuffle track, I'd Sing The Blues If I Had 'Em, Garrett leads the way and Gring's riffs are crisp and playful. On Hooker influenced, Three Strikes, the band gets into a super R&B groove with a really nice guitar line. Definitely one of my favorites on the release. On Patience, a slower blues, it's the soulful vocals of Garrett, warm key lines of Chris Ulep and nice bluesy guitar soloing of Gring that makes this track really sail. Wrapping the release is shuffle track, Money Ain't My Friend, grinding into the blues straightaway. Rugged vocals by Garrett and solid drum contribution by Lambert really give this track it's spine and Gring's double stop leads pushed by Robertson make this an excellent closer for a 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”

 For added exposure - Blues World Wide Group "LIKE" 

  “Like” Bman’s Facebook page and get support for your favorite band or venue - click HERE

Scottie Miller Band - Stay Above Water - New release review

I just had the opportunity to review the most recent release, Stay Above Water from Scottie Miller Band and it's a cool mix of blues, rock, R&B. Opening with shuffle track, Burned All My Bridges, Miller on lead vocal and keys is backed by Mark O'Day on drums, Patrick Allen on guitars and Dik Shopteau on bass. Keep This Thing Going has a funky feel with Larry McCabe on trombone, David Eiland on tenor sax, Scott Snyder on trumpet and John Croarkin on bari sax and special guest Ruthie Foster on vocal. Very nice. It Better Groove has a smooth R&B sound with great bottom by Croarkin. Slick piano and organ work by Miller and chicken style pickin' by Allen sets this track apart. Special ballad, Guardian Angel, has a real nice melody and features simple vocal and mandolin by Miller. One of my favorites on the release is Circles with a real nice funky groove. This track has a slow strut with popping bass, funky guitar, cool organ and nicely blended vocals. Very cool. Lumbering blues rocker, Come Along has a heavy format with just a taste of prog metal adding weight. Wrapping the release is acoustic number, Goodbye. A simple ballad with Miller on vocal and Allen on guitar, a nice closer for a nice 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”

 For added exposure - Blues World Wide Group "LIKE" 

 

 “Like” Bman’s Facebook page and get support for your favorite band or venue - click HERE

EllerSoul Records artists: The Nighthawks - All You Gotta Do - New Release Review

I just had the opportunity to review the most recent release, All You Gotta Do, from The Nighthawks legendary blues & roots band and it's quite good. Opening with Jerry Reed's power rocker and title track, That's All You Gotta Do, the band is humming right from the start with Mark Wenner on harp, Paul Bell on guitar, Johnny Castle on bass and Mark Stutso on drums. Hot! On Willie Dixon's, Baby, I Want To Be Loved, the band really has the spirit of Dixon's blues and Wenner's riffs are crisp and smoky. On Randy Newman's Let's Burn Down The Cornfield the band explores the darkness of the blues with super slide work by Bell, nice harp by Wenner and super vocals over a well paced blues rocker. On Sonny Williamson's shuffle track, Ninety Nine, it's all Wenner who really does a nice job of working the harp. Excellent. On original soul track, Three Times A Fool, the band digs deeply into the groove with hot vocals and cool reverb soaked guitar work. Jesse Winchester's Isn't That So has a cool R&B feel and great vocal harmonies over a Tony Joe White feel. Country flavored riffs by Bell and lightly salted harp riffs dress the track nicely. My favorite track on the release is RL Burnside's Snake Drive with saturated guitar tones and super slide riffs, tight harp adds and a great bass/drum feel. Excellent! Wenner's composition, Blues for Brother John has a real cool saunter and gives him an excellent opportunity to blow over a solid bottom and walking bass line. Paul Bell injects some real clean jazz flavor on guitar giving the track a cool feel. Very nice. Standell's hit, Dirty Water wraps the release in pretty straight order. Bell explores classic guitar riffs from the sixties including the Stones and The Yardbirds capping a fun 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”

 For added exposure - Blues World Wide Group "LIKE" 

 

 “Like” Bman’s Facebook page and get support for your favorite band or venue - click HERE