PIERCE PETTIS Announces First New Album In Nearly A Decade

Songwriter Pierce Pettis Announces First New Album In Nearly A Decade FATHER'S SON Set To Release January 18, 2019 On Compass Records "Unlike a lot of his contemporaries, singer-songwriter Pierce Pettis doesn't belong to the 'me generation.'  He's more likely to sing of his surroundings than himself, and frequently draws on his Southern background for inspiration and color." Washington Post  A witty, heartfelt lyricist, Pettis has a voice that carries the acoustic folk tradition, but is refreshingly hard to pigeon-hole." Charlotte Observer “Pierce Pettis has created a musical body of work that is wide and deep. Dip your toe in anywhere and you will want to hear more of my friend Pierce Pettis!"  — John Gorka “I have loved Pierce’s music for many years now - he has the gift of a true inner compass.”     — Eliza Gilkyson “Pierce Pettis bares a gentle soul with a keen eye, a soulful voice, and perfect guitar accompaniment for his beautiful songs - a masterful poet treasure.”  — Darryl Scott November 15, 2018, Nashville, TN -- A songwriter’s songwriter, Pierce Pettis is back with his first new studio album in nearly a decade with FATHER’S SON, out January 18 on Compass Records. You can listen to the opening track, "Wouldn't Change It For the World," HERE. Featuring 10 tracks, including a cover of Jesse Winchester’s “A Showman’s Life,” the Alabama songwriter writes about friends he’s lost, childhood memories, and the relationships he’s experienced both as a son and a father on these deeply moving, literate songs. FATHER’S SON, reuniting Pettis with producer Garry West, was recorded “live on the floor, with the band, with minimal overdubs, to capture the energy and authenticity of Pierce's performances.” "I began my alleged career at Muscle Shoals Sound in the late 70s," Pettis deadpans."I was signed as a writer and had an artist development deal." From there, he was a part of the “Fast Folk” movement in New York that featured such fellow artists as Shawn Colvin, John Gorka and Suzanne Vega, going on to record three albums for Windham Hill. He spent several years as a staff writer for Polygram Records before signing to Compass Records.   Pettis and West combed through some 40 songs, old and new, to come up with the songs on FATHER’S SON. The album opens with the upbeat “Wouldn’t Change It For the World,” where he embraces where he finds himself at this time in his life – “sometimes you’re blessed, Sometimes you’re burned, But that’s OK, I woudn’t change it for the world.” Pettis’ daughter Grace Pettis contributes backing vocals on the refrain. Along with the title track, “Your Father’s Son,” a song about never forgetting where you came from, Pettis reaches back into his childhood memories to tell the story of one kindly Mr. Ziedman, the “one and only Jew” in his little town, who always wore long sleeves to “keep an ugly thing from view.” The song is enhanced by Andrea Zonn’s poignantly beautifully string arrangement, as Pettis ends the song by lighting a candle for “our one and only Jew.” ”More” is a song about the great mystery – he likens death to “just a seed that had to fall” – and concludes that “there is more than we can guess … forever more." And, as always, he includes a song by his late friend, musician/producer Mark Heard, whose sudden death in 1993 left its mark on Pettis. “The song I chose this time, 'Look Over Your Shoulder,' has a special meaning for me as it was the last song Mark ever performed," Pettis says. "I know this because Kate Miner and I were with him at a festival in Illinois and on stage with him at the time.”  Pettis was joined in the studio by a cast of old friends and veterans from his previous albums: Reece Wynans, widely known for his work with Stevie Ray Vaughan and Joe Bonamassa, contributed piano and Hammond B-3 tracks.   Longtime collaborator Stuart Duncan contributes his multiple Grammy-winning fiddle skills along with some beautiful mandolin parts. Also back is violinist Andrea Zonn (James Taylor Band), who contributed the string arrangement for “Mr. Ziedman.”   "Adding backing vocals for the second time is my daughter, Grace, who last recorded with me on EVERYTHING MATTERS when she was 9 years old! “ Pettis says. And of course, my long-time producer and friend, Garry West, joins us on bass and produced for the fourth time.” Some newcomers to Pierce's world are guitarist Doug Lancio, known for his work with John Hiatt and Patty Griffin, drummer/percussionists Josh Day (Sara Bareilles, John Oates) and Jordan Perlson (Adrian Belew, Alison Brown, Blue Man Group), and vocalist Ruth Moody from renowned vocal trio, the Wailin’ Jennys. At this point in his life, as a career touring artist and father of four, Pettis has reached a period of reflection and peace with his life as well as a comfort zone as an artist.  “The biggest change,” he says, “has been getting over myself and realizing this is a job and a craft. And the purpose is not fame and fortune but simply doing good work." TRACK LISTING 1. Wouldn’t Change It for the World 2. Very Same Moon 3. A Showman’s Life 4. Don’t Know Where I Am 5. The Adventures of Me (and this Old Guitar) 6. Your Father’s Son 7. Mr. Zeidman 8. More 9. Look Over Your shoulder 10. Instrument TOUR DATES Fri, NOV 30      Tallahassee, FL - The Almost Christmas Concert with Del Suggs & Pierce Pettis Thu, DEC 6       Fort Payne, AL - Johnny Whitley's Rockin' Lil' Christmas RadioVizions Show Sat, DEC 8        Duluth, GA - Red Clay Music Foundry Sun, DEC 9       Carrboro, NC - Pierce Pettis at Birdland NC Thu, DEC 13     Sarasota, FL - Fogartyville Community Media Arts Center Sat, DEC 15      Coral Springs, FL - Boumel House Concerts  2019 Sat, FEB 2         Panama City Beach, FL - amp Helen State Par Sun, FEB 3        Lynn Haven, FL  - Roberts Hall Fri, FEB 8          Waco, TX - "Fundraiser for the Waco Partnership for Psychological and Spiritual Care" Sat, FEB 9        Houston, TX  - 2nd Saturday Concerts Sat, FEB 16      Fayetteville, AR  - Cove Concerts Thu, MAY 16     Buffalo, NY - Nickel City Sessions Fri. May 17        Rochester, NY - Lake Effect House Concerts Fri, NOV 15       Austin, TX  - Acoustical Cafe Sat, NOV 23      Edom, TX  - The Old Firehouse Check https://www.piercepettis.com/shows for tour updates. LISTEN TO THE ALBUM OPENER "WOULDN'T CHANGE IT FOR THE WORLD" HERE:

Seth Rosenbloom to Release 'Keep on Turning' - Out January 18th

Boston Blues Guitarist Seth Rosenbloom to Release New CD

‘Keep on Turning’ out January 18th

“For me, playing the blues is all about expressing emotions,” guitarist and vocalist Seth Rosenbloom insists. “What’s always drawn me to the genre is the fact that it allows for an extraordinarily wide range of emotion. That, I think, is the key to making great music overall, and great blues in particular.”

Rosenbloom knows of what he speaks. Hailed by The Boston Globe as “a searing blues-rock guitarist,” and The Noise Boston as a musician who “makes his guitar growl and has a voice to match,” he’s been compared to “a slightly younger and rawer version of Matt Schofield ,” by the Blues PowR blog, which also praised him for “his gravelly, forceful vocals and stinging guitar work.”

Those assessments were affirmed this past year, when Rosenbloom made his bow with his debut self-titled EP. Now, with the release of his first full length effort, Keep On Turning (January 2019), that promise is indeed fulfilled. An assertive and authoritative artist and auteur, he demonstrates confidence and credence with a set of songs that sounds every bit like a new set of standards. He executes the material in ways that are both riveting and embracing, with his dynamic delivery ensuring an emphatic impression.

Throughout the album, Rosenbloom commands center stage, with able support from Travis Carlton on bass (Robben Ford, Scott Henderson), Scott Kinsey (Tribal Tech) on keys and Gary Novak (George Benson, Chick Corea) on drums. Produced by Josh Smith, a world renowned blues guitarist in his own right, Keep On Turning was recorded at Smith’s Flat V Studios in Reseda, California.

Although firmly entrenched in the blues, Keep On Turning reflects a distinct diversity in the range of sentiment, as expressed in a selection of songs composed by Rosenbloom both on his own and with co-writer Sonya Rae Taylor. He also includes classic covers of B.B. King, Elmore James and Freddie King. From the emphatic wail of “Keep On Turning” and “Right About Now,” to the drive and determination of “Crawling Back” and “I Can’t Help It,” Rosenbloom’s passion and authenticity are on display throughout the album.

Born into a musical family and raised in Waltham, Massachusetts, Rosenbloom began playing classical violin as a child and subsequently took up guitar at age eleven. Initially inspired by the music of Elvis and The Beatles, he earned a performance merit scholarship from Berklee College of Music by the time he was 16.

Rosenbloom has further expanded his reputation by spending much of this year on the road as well, introducing himself to his newly enthusiastic audiences. Whether demonstrating his dazzling guitar riffs and stinging vibrato, or emoting with his soaring and sultry vocals, he brings a distinctive power and personality to each of his performances. Now, with the release of Keep On Turning, he underscores that ability to add several specific hues to the blues.

Keep on Turning to be released by HOLMZ Music on January 18, 2019.

www.SethRosenbloom.com

TOURDATES

Jan 12---Burren Backroom Series---Somerville, MA

Jan 16---Pour House Music Hall---Raleigh, NC

Jan 17---Evening Muse---Charlotte, NC

Jan 19---Open Chord---Knoxville, TN

Feb 1----Theodores'---Springfield, MA

Feb 2----Nectar's---Burlington, VT

Mar 2----9 Wallis---Beverly, MA

Ronnie Spector and The Ronettes Ring in the Holidays With Their Best Christmas Party Ever!

Ronnie Spector and The Ronettes Ring in the Holidays With Their Best Christmas Party Ever!

Spector’s definitive versions of “Frosty” and “Sleigh Ride” dominate the airwaves at Christmas time

Exclusive People Magazine Interview on Newsstands Soon

Now a beloved holiday tradition, Ronnie Spector and The Ronettes’ Best Christmas Party Ever! kicks off in late November, and this year’s tour will coincide with an exclusive profile in People Magazine.

The iconic singer and Rock & Roll Hall of Fame inductee absolutely loves Christmas, and she’ll ring in the holiday season once again when her spirited multi-media show tours the U.S.  – Confirmed dates are here:

11/24              Madison Theatre                    Rockville Centre, NY
11/30              Ridgefield Playhouse              Ridgefield, CT
12/8                El Club                                     Detroit, MI
12/9                Arcada Theatre                       St. Charles, IL
12/12              Musikfest Café                       Bethlehem, PA
12/13              Colonial Theatre                     Phoenixville, PA
12/14              Suffolk Theatre                      Riverhead, NY
12/16              Tildon PAC                              Barnstable, MA
12/22, 23        City Winery                            New York City                                                           

The New York Daily News buzzed, “Go and experience the ultimate sonic stocking stuffer!” And The New York Times raved, “It’s hard to think of a more appealing angel to welcome the season than Ms. Spector.”

For three decades, Spector’s Christmas show has been a cherished holi­day tradition, with a song list that includes her renditions of “Frosty the Snowman,” “Sleigh Ride,” and “I Saw Mommy Kissing Santa Claus.” Her definitive versions of “Frosty” and “Sleigh Ride” dominate the airwaves at Christmas time and are perennials on ASCAP’s list of the Top 20 Most–Played Holiday Songs for the past decade, and are staples on the Billboard Holiday Hits 100 Chart.  Her Christmas tracks have also been heard in hit movies such as Goodfellas, Joy, and Jingle All the Way.

Ronnie’s Christmas Party is a raucous, rocking blend of her Christmas classics, Ronettes hits including “Be My Baby” (named by Billboard Magazine as the #1 Greatest Girl Group Song of All Time,) “Walking In The Rain,” “Baby I Love You”, cult gems from her back catalog, a splash of doo–wop, and plenty of Ronnie’s inimitable off–the–cuff commentary.  The San Francisco Chronicle proclaimed, “If it takes Christmas to make Ronnie Spector come out and play, let it snow, let it snow, let it snow."

Selected press clippings:
Spector was featured in the June/July issue of AARP Magazine, the #1 print outlet in America, with readership exceeding 47 million. AARP MAGAZINE –‘Sandwich of Love’: http://bit.ly/RonnieAARP <http://bit.ly/RonnieAARP>

NPR Music praised Ronnie Spector as a rock trailblazer:
It's Time To Recognize The Ronettes As Rock And Roll Pioneers  By Hilarie Ashton March 12, 2018
https://www.npr.org/2018/03/12/590891692/its-time-to-recognize-the-ronettes-as-rock-and-roll-pioneers <https://www.npr.org/2018/03/12/590891692/its-time-to-recognize-the-ronettes-as-rock-and-roll-pioneers>

Spector appeared on Bravo TV’s ‘Watch What Happens Live’ with Andy Cohen, during which she shared stories of her extraordinary career. Get a sense of the appearance, which featured guests
Tiffany  Haddish and Cynthia Bailey, here:
https://youtu.be/caz-vr5cooU?t=5m20s <https://youtu.be/caz-vr5cooU?t=5m20s>

People Magazine interview feature:
Ronnie Spector’s Victory Lap: The Original Rock Queen Talks New Music and Reviving the Ronette By Jordan Runtagh, 6/24/17
http://people.com/music/ronnie-spector-ronettes-tour-2017-  new-music-love-power-interview/ <http://people.com/music/ronnie-spector-ronettes-tour-2017-new-music-love-power-interview/>


Long Island Woman Magazine – cover story interview:
https://issuu.com/longislandwoman/docs/march18issuu <https://issuu.com/longislandwoman/docs/march18issuu>
NextTribe interview: https://nexttribe.com/ronnie-spector/?mc_cid=18e514b3ac&mc_eid=51ffbf2789 <https://nexttribe.com/ronnie-spector/?mc_cid=18e514b3ac&mc_eid=51ffbf2789>
LA Weekly interview: https://www.laweekly.com/music/ronnie-spector-puts-her-arms-around-a-lifetime-of-memories-9709883 <https://www.laweekly.com/music/ronnie-spector-puts-her-arms-around-a-lifetime-of-memories-9709883>





More about Ronnie Spector:
Spector’s current high-profile stretch was described by People Magazine as a “Victory Lap” for “The Original Rock Queen”. Billboard Magazine named ‘Be My Baby’ as the #1 Greatest Girl Group Song of All Time, NPR included Spector’s 1964 debut at #20 on their 150 Greatest Albums of the Rock Era, Made by Female Artist, and her busy 2017/18 also included the release of ‘LOVE POWER’, her first single recorded with The Ronettes in decades, a commanding performance at Lincoln Center, an appearance on FOX-TV’s Good Day New York, a Main Stage performance at SF Pride and more. The acclaimed singer was also presented with the Legend Award by The Woman's International Music Network at their "She Rocks Award” ceremony. She was featured in the BBC’s 2018 documentary about Amy Winehouse. Spector was honored with a Lifetime Spirit Award by LSA Family Health Services, in her native East Harlem. In addition, ‘Be My Baby’ has been added to the National Recording Registry of the Library of Congress, preserved as a work of historical and cultural significance, and is also now an official addition to the Grammy Hall of Fame.

As a seminal force in Sixties Rock, Spector’s swagger, moxie and trademark voice (still instantly recognizable from the first note,) defined an era. As the Number One pop group in England, Ronnie Spector and the Ronettes headlined over acts including The Rolling Stones, Eric Clapton and The Yardbirds. In the years since, Spector has had songs written for her by George Harrison as well as by Bruce Springsteen, and has recorded with Jimi Hendrix, Springsteen & The E Street Band, members of The Beatles and more. Billy Joel wrote the smash ‘Say Goodbye to Hollywood’ as a tribute to Ronnie, and Eddie Money’s ‘Take Me Home Tonight’ celebrated her trademark Be My Baby vocals, with the duet reaching #4 on the Billboard Hot 100 Chart.

Now in her sixth decade as a performer and a style icon, Spector has reached a new level of cultural significance. Critical respect is at its peak, and she continues to thrill -- inspiring and empowering a new generation of fans as an enduring, transcendent figure, who has overcome adversity to build a career that is nothing short of remarkable. Much as B.B. King came to embody the blues, or Chuck Berry was to early Rock ‘n Roll, Spector has solidified her status as the Rosetta Stone for female rock performers of today.


For tour updates and ticket details, visit: http://www.ronniespector.com/shows/ <http://www.ronniespector.com/shows/>

Real Gone Records artist: Ron Spencer Band - Into The Blue - New Release Review

I just had the opportunity to review the most recent release, Into The Blue, from Ron Spencer Band and it's got a great feel. Opening with rocker, Closer To The Bone, Mark Gibson has the lead vocal spot and Ron Spencer revs up his guitar with great tone on guitar. Bob Purdy on bass set a solid foundation with Ross Moe on drums and Dan "Cato" Eaton does a real nice job on piano. Addicted To You is a cool, laid back swamp rocker with low slung vocal lines. This track has a great feel. One of my favorite tracks on the release is So Wrong with its tight Latin rhythms and warm guitar tones. Very nice. It's Time, has a cool T-Bone Walker feel and Gibson's vocals are really nice. Spencer shows his had at blues guitar -" T-Bone style" and he does a really nice job. Eaton gets a real chance to show off on rock 'n roller, Fine Fine Woman with it boogie beat and Gibson of course leads the charge with excellent vocals. Wrapping the release is another Latin flavored track, Cold Outside with a real nice swing showcasing Spencer and Eaton on solid solos for a real strong closer to a really enjoyable 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”

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Coffeegrinds Records artist: Blue Largo - Before The Devil Steals Your Soul - New Release Review

I just had the opportunity to review the most recent release, Before The Devil Steals Your Soul, from Blue Largo and it's a blues rocker with a dose of swing. Opening with Wash Away with it's spiritual roots. With warm vocal chorus by Alicia Aragon, Eric Lieberman, Nena Anderson, Missy Anderson, Diane McCalester, Jacquelene Haynes, Nathaniel Greene Jr., Andre Buck and Nathan Jones, this is really nice. Opening into a an early sixties style rocker with Eddie Croft on sax, Lieberman on guitar, Marcus P. Boshore on bass, Tanya "T-Bird" Donath on piano and Rafeal Solomon on Hammond, it's a cool opener. Latin rhythm carries Monrovia with cool percussion by Mike Tempo, stylistic trumpet by Steve Ebner and cool solo's by Lieberman and Donath. Instrumental, Bodas De Oro, is a terrific track featuring Lieberman on baritone guitar and really nice percussion and piano. Excellent! Vocal ballad, The Long Ballad has a great melody and is a solid showcase for Aragon's lead vocals. I particularly like the clean piano work of Donath paired with Lieberman's electric guitar soloing on this track. Anthony Newley's Feeling Good is a real nice showcase for saxophonist, Croft. Another instrumental, Grinder's Groove, features the solid sax work of Jonny Viau and stylistic soloing by Lieberman. Nat Adderly's Work Song is a cool, jazzy, instrumental getting the horns and Lieberman on guitar for a solid piece. Wrapping the release features Lieberman and Nathan James on acoustic guitars playing the blues. It's a real nice closer for this 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”

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Ben Rice - Wish The World Away - New Release Review

I just had the opportunity to review the most recent release, Wish The World Away, from Ben Rice and it's light and airy with great guitar riffs and cool melodies. Opening with Dirt Road Home, a driving understated boogie, Rice shows just how much music can be played with just vocal, guitar and drums by Jimi Bott. Cool opener. Peace Will Overcome has a really nice rhythm set up by Bott, Julio Appling on bass and Dave Fleschner on piano, topped by excellent slide work by Rice. Very nice. Mojo Hand feels like hill country with a lot of rag tag and a lot of rockin blues. Rice's vocals are perfect for this track and his resonator guitar work is tight and clean with highlights drawn by Mitch Kashmar on harp and Dave Melyan on percussion. Very nice. Soulful track, Hardtimes is one of my favorites on the release with the best vocals on the release and rich organ tones of Dave Fleschner. Very nice. Stevie Wonder's HigherGround get an acoustic rework and retains a lot of the original energy with only the power of Rice's excellent vocals and tight slide guitar work. Wrapping the release is Don't Worry Mama with the mourning sounds of Rice accompanied by his steel resonator. This is a very strong release with contemporary blues roots.

  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”

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Stony Plain Records artist: Colin James - Miles To Go - New Release Review

I just had the opportunity to review the most recent release, Miles To Go, from Colin James and it's really good! Opening with Muddy Water's, One More Mile, Colin James puts a funky spin on it and it is a contemporary as they come. With Geoff Hicks on drums, Steve Pelletier on bass, Simon Kendall on Hammond, Chris Caddell on rhythm guitar and Steve mariner on harp, this track is a super opener. Another Waters track, Still A Fool maintains the basic Waters outline but with a solid bass line and fiery guitar riffs, another super addition. Very nice. Big Boy Crudup's Dig Myself a Hole has a super Little Feat, swampy funky feel with real nice slide by James and perfect backing vocals by The Sojourners. James original. I Will Remain, is really solid with a real nice drum track, glistening rhythm guitar, a soulful melody and excellent blues guitar lines bringing to mind BB King or Robert Cray. Excellent! Jessie Mae Robinson's Black Night is my favorite on the release with James' best vocals on the release. His guitar riffs are inspired and Chris Gestrin's piano work is crisp. Wrapping the release is an acoustic take on One More Mile with James on acoustic guitar and vocal with Coleen Rennison on backing vocal. This is a really nice closer for a very 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”

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RC and the Moonpie Band - All This - New Release Review

I just had the opportunity to review the most recent release, All This, from RC and the Moonpie Band and it's a lot of fun.  Opening with boogie rocker and title track, All This, RC (Robert Christian) has lead vocals backed by Robert Marlowe on funky guitar, T Bone Betourney on drums,  Mike Logiovino on bass and Russell Pleasants on backing vocals. With Latin styling and tongue in cheek lyrics, Cheated on Me is a cool, clever track with interesting guitar work and a tight rhythm. Wild primitive delta styling and acoustic slide guitar make Big Ass Jug  O' Wine a favorite entry on the release. Older Women has a Screamin Jay Hawking kind of feel with dramatic wailing, solid soul vocals and powerful keyboard soloing. With fundamental blues structure, Take Off Your Shoes follows a T Bone Walker lead but with less flamboyant soloing and more curious vocals. The Buddy Guy Up is a super shuffle with a super groove. Potent vocals, dancing piano, hot guitar and a radical attitude makes this the party choice for the release. Wrapping the release is Funky Way with a great bass groove by Logiovino, excellent drum work by Betourney and just a super overall groove. Very nice closer. 

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

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American Showplace Music artist: Rachelle Coba - Blink - New Release Review

I just had the opportunity to review the most recent release, Blink, from Rachelle Coba and it's an soulful understated rocker. Opening with High and Dry, a rocker with a driving beat, Coba on guitar and vocal is teamed with Paul Kuzik on bass, Andrei Koricanics on drums and featuring John Ginty on piano. Dance These Blues Away has a cool funky back beat that really gives Coba a chance to showcase her bluesy vocals and soulful guitar riffs. Very nice. Good Ole Heartbreak is a soul ballad with a great melody. Another strong track, this could easily be the top radio track on the release. A solid rocker with a light country flavor (think Stones or Mellencamp) title track, Blink, had a strong (rock) dance groove and just the right guitar tone to push it over the edge. Solid! Another track that deserves a particular note is Shuffle Ya with an almost spoken vocal line but with a heavy footed bottom and guitar punctuation over the warm organ ride of Ginty. Very nice. Wrapping the release is another strong blues ballad, Blame It On The Blues giving Coba one last chance to showcase her soulful vocals with rich organ piano work by Ginty. Excellent closer. 

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

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Solid Blues Records artist: JW - Jones - Live - New Release Review

I just had the opportunity to review the most recent release, Live, from JW- Jones and it's terrific. Opening with A Memo, a cool, well written rocker with a solid melody. Jones' band is Laura Greenberg on bass and vocal, Will Laurin on drums and vocals and Don Cummings on Hammond and vocals. Jones gets the opportunity to stretch a bit and with nicely phrased blues riffs, punctuates this fine opener. On BB King's Need You So Bad, Jones' vocals are firm and his guitar playing sure footed. I have heard each of his previous releases and this one really shines. Howlin' Wolf's Moanin' At Midnight has a steady rolling tempo with aggressive blues stance, breaking into a Hendrix "Voodoo Chile" posture and letting the pyrotechnics fly. Very nice. Dylan's Tonight I'll be Staying Here With You has an approach that blends Dylan, Beck and Garcia styles. Another BB King track, Early Every Morning, has a hard driving bass line putting Jones into boogie mode, dancing across the fretboard in the manner of Gatemouth Brown, but using his own phrasing making it all his own. Very nice.  Albert King's, You're Gonna Need Me, sets up nicely with a cool undertow on bass and subdued King styling on rhythm, allowing Jones to lay it out there "All Jones". Excellent! Reworking Jimmy Rogers' That's Alright, you got pure slow blues. Some of Jones best vocals in years shine here and Muddy Waters styling on slide is extremely effective. Wrapping the release is I Might Not Come Home At All with an extended guitar exploration including the Walk Don't Run, Wipeout, Daytripper, Satisfaction, James Bond Theme, Secret Agent Man, Communication Man, Baracuda, Hawaii 5-O Theme, Batman Theme, Spider Man Theme, Apache, Pipeline,  Brown Sugar, Oh Pretty Woman, Misirlou and Johnny B Goode. Excellent closer for a really solid release. I think his best yet!

  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”

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Landslide Records artist: Geoff Achison - Sovereign Town - New Release Review

I just had the opportunity to review the most recent release, Sovereign Town, from Geoff Achison and it's quite good. Opening with folk rocker, Skeleton Kiss, Achison, on guitar and vocal crafts a definitely radio worthy track with solid backing by Andrew Fry on bass, Dave Clark on drums, Liam Kealy on Hammond and John McNamara on backing vocals. Title track, Sovereign Town has a real nice feel with rich warm backing vocals and a blend of finger picked and slide guitar by Achison supporting his distinctive vocals. Very nice. With a light jazzy touch, Misha Bella has a cool George Benson touch but maintaining Achison style country runs. Kealy's Hammond solo balances the track nicely making it one of my favorites on the release. Another particularly interesting track is World of Blue with fluid delivery, a strong melody, warm backing vocals, nice slide and just the right amount of Hammond. Excellent! Instrumental track, Hand of Faith, has a very soothing melody and with firm yet delicate articulate, Achison delivers this exceptional track. Wrapping the release is instrumental, Coolbardie Sunrise with tight fingerpicking in a traditional country blues style. Excellent closer for 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”

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On The Fly Music artist: Lee Palmer - Horns & Harps - New Relese Review

I just had the opportunity to review the most recent release, Harps & Horns, from Lee Palmer and it's quiet and relaxing. Opening with  Waitin' On A Train, an easy going shuffle featuring Palmer on vocal and guitar, Sean O'Grady on drums, Iain McNally on guitars, Alec Fraser on bass, Steve O'Connor on piano, Roly Platt on harp and Chris Ayries on backing vocal. Saucy blues number, My Baby Again, features fat sax by Turner King, silky vocals by Palmer and really clean piano soloing by O'Connor.  Bringing down the tempo on Shake Em Blues, a drone bass line by Fraser Jr. sets the stage and nicely blended vocals and warm organ work by O'Connor, topped by Platt makes this one of my release favorites. Electric riffs by McNally start boogie track, Rockin' Strawberry Jam, off right and with a romping rhythm, hot sax riffs and cool vocals this is another favorite. Wrapping the release is quiet, jazzy, Isn't That So, with a nice blend of sax, bass and vocals. Very nice. 

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Vizz Tone Label Group artist: Amanda Fish - Free - New Release Review

I just had the opportunity to review the most recent release, Free, from Amanda Fish and it's cool. Fish takes a raw pop edge with soul to create her own voice. Opening with 2020, a funky blues track Fish kicks off her shoes and captures that southern rock Muscle Shoals" feel with Dave Hays on guitar. Cool opener. Boogie track, Not Anymore has a great driving bass line and with Richard Rosenblatt spicing up the track on harp. Boogie! One of my favorite tracks on the release is Anymore with really nice soulful vocals and Chris Hazelton joining on organ. Blessed is full blown gospel style soul with Sarah Morgan on backing vocals and Ken Valdez on guitar. Alastair Greene kicks it into high gear on rocker, Going Down with super slide guitar. Very cool. Powerful soul ballad, You Could Be shows just how gripping Fish's vocals can be when she digs down and she does dig. Coyote Bill adds some hot flashes on guitar joined by Hazelton on organ. Hot and heavy. Another boogie track with hot slide is Here We Are and plenty of soul country sweat. Best blues vocals on the release show on Don't Mean A Thing with a lot of the emotion of Janis on Ball and Chain featuring very nicely articulated guitar soloing by Hays. With a change up, Fish switches to a raw, Courtney Love style for another super track. Wrapping the release is title track, Free, a solemn soul track with Fish accompanying herself on piano, joined by Hazelton on organ, and then springing into a full blown spiritual track with Hays and Carl Butler on guitar, Morgan on vocals, Glen James on tambourine and drums, and Fish of course on bass. This is a sneakily super release. Give it a couple of listens and see for yourself. 

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Mike Zito's 'Blue Room' - 20th Anniversary Edition to be Re Released on 11/16/18

Mike Zito Debut 'Blue Room' Celebrates Two Decades

20th Anniversary Edition Re Released Nov 16^th on Ruf Records

It’s back. The debut album that blew up the ’90s blues scene. The songs that announced the touchdown of a major new talent. In modern times, as an established solo star and former member of the globally acclaimed Royal Southern Brotherhood, Mike Zito’s reputation precedes him. But turn back the clocks. Rewind the film reels. Slip through the wormhole to 1998, when a 27-year-old punk kid took his first shot in the studio. “Blue Room,” he reflects, “is the beginning of me becoming an artist.”

By 1998, Zito had been around the block. Raised at the sharp end in St. Louis, Missouri, he’d witnessed the lean years of the ’70s, as his father – a union employee at the local Anheuser-Busch brewery – grafted to support five kids in a cramped apartment. Music was a way out, with Zito learning his craft at a downtown guitar store, then seizing any live work that fell his way. As he told the Blues Mag: “I’ve played with country bands, dance bands, rock bands, alternative bands…”

Blue Room was the moment of clarity, when Zito realised he was burning to be more than a roadhouse-filling covers band. In 1997, he assembled a dedicated lineup and announced his new mission statement: original songs written from the heart. But artistic integrity didn’t come cheap. With just $1000 for studio bills, the entire Blue Room tracklisting was captured in a single day, and you can still feel the urgency flood through the speakers. “We’d played the night before until 6am at an all-night club in St. Louis,” recalls Zito, “and went to the studio at 9am. We brought beer with us and basically did not sleep. The vibe is total bravado, full of honesty.”

Blue Room changed everything. As the album sold, the songs began to be requested live – displacing the Cream and Hendrix covers – and Zito was heralded as an artist of rare potential. Back then, he didn’t anticipate the bitter-sweet future about to unfold – the lost years of alcoholism in the post-millennium, the salvation offered by his wife, Laura, the plaudits of Royal Southern Brotherhood in 2012 and the rising trajectory of his solo career since he picked it back up with 2015’s Keep Coming Back. But when Zito looks back now at Blue Room, he wouldn’t change a thing: “I find such joy in listening to the young man on this recording. I’m so proud that it’s finally being released by Ruf Records after twenty years…”

Blue Room out on Ruf Records Nov 16, 2018

Vizz Tone Label Group artist: Josh Smith - Burn To Grow - New Release Review

I just had the opportunity to review the most recent release, Burn To Grow, from Josh Smith and it's really cool. Opening with soul flavored track, Half Blues, the title hits it. This track has strong soulful vocals and a solid blues bottom with stinging guitar work by Smith. Backed by Travis Carlton on bass, Lemar Carter on drums Jamelle Adisa on trumpet, Chris Johnson on trombone, J.P. Floyd on trombone, Matthew DeMerritt on tenor sax, and Dan Boisey of tenor and bari sax, this is a terrific start. A bit smoother, a bit like Al Green, Through the Night shows real attention to conventional soul music but still with the guitar accents of a blues master. A strong radio contender with a great melody and warm melodic backing vocals by Monet Owens, Watching You Go has powerful guitar riffs that would make SRV's neck hair stand on end. With it's heavy bass line lead by Carlton and the raw guitar edge by Smith, balanced by confident vocals, a tight rhythm section and cool horn topping Let Me Take Care of You has a real nice groove. Another of my favorite tracks on the release, What We Need is a loose, slow blues with cocky blues guitar riffs. Smiths vocals are really soulful as throughout but this track just hits the spot. Very nice. A little more funk and horn input on You Never Know yields a jazzier side of Smith and his guitar melds to yet another bluesy style. Wrapping the release is title track, Burn to Grow, a blues fused rocker. With a heavy, lumbering bottom and fat, overdriven guitar this is a solid contemporary closer.

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Eller Soul Records artist: Doug Deming & The Jewel Tones - Complicated Mess - New release review

I just had the opportunity to review the most recent release, Complicated Mess, from Doug Deming and the Jewel Tones and it's really strong. Opening with title track, Complicated Mess, guitar man and vocalist, Doug Deming sets the table for a blues feast. His vocals are solid as always and using machine gun and trem bend, his riffs are hot! Joining are Andrew Gohman on bass and Marty Dodson on drums. Super opener. Kim Wilson's harp work adds great depth and Demings riffs are rich and jazzy on Sweet Poison, a cool bluesy ballad. Sam Theard's classic, You Rascal You, has great wings with Little Charlie Baty on guitar, joining Deming with clever lyrics and an extremely active rhythm section. Excellent! Shuffle, Need My Baby has a great lope and Madison Slim's harp work is strong giving the track a nice edge. My favorite track on the release is slow blues, Deep Blue Sea, with soulful vocal by Deming and smoldering guitar riffs, playing against Bon Welsh's piano workout. Excellent! Bright jazzy instrumental, Captain's Quarters is bass driven by Gohman and Little Charlie and Deming really give it a strong workout. Very nice! Shuffle track, Cookin' At The Kitchen has a great feel with Welsh on piano, Slim on Harp, and tight trums work by Dodson. Wrapping the release is horn soaked instrumental Rat Killin', with Tino Barker on lush bari sax, Sax Gordon on tenor sax, Gohman getting loose on bass and some terrific flight finger work by Deming. Excellent closer for a really strong release. 

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Endless Blues Records artist: Mick Kolassa and the Taylor Made Blues Band - 149 Delta Ave. - New release Review

I just had the opportunity to review the most recent release, 149 Delta Ave, from Mick Kolassa and the Taylor Made Blues Band and the talent is thick. Opening with I Can't Slow Down, a 2 steppin rocker, Mick Kolassa on lead vocal is backed by David Dunavent on guitars, Leo Goff on bass, Lee Andrew Williams on drums, Chris Stephenson on keys and Susan Marshall and Daunielle Hill on backing vocal this is a cool opener. Eric Hughes joins on US 12 to Highway 49, a smart shuffle with solid harp work. Cotton Road is one of my favorites on the release with roots in chain gang work songs. Toronzo Cannon adds some really smart guitar lead and wailing backing vocals make this track rich with feel. Pullin Me Down has a creeping R&B blues style with solid bass work from Goff, crisp guitar soloing by Jeff Jensen and includes tight trumpet and sax work by  Marc Franklin and Kirk Smothers. Very nice. A funky version of Ashford and Simpson's I Don't Need No Doctor has a real nice groove and the trumpet work of Franklin is bright. Alternating solos by Franklin, Smothers, Jensen and Stephensen really fill out the track. Wrapping the release is an interesting remake of classic Stuff Smith track, the Viper. Kolassa's vocals work well and with Suavo Jones on trombone, Alice Hansen on Stuff Smith's part (violin), Mike Wilson on Puccalo, and Marc Franklin on trumpet, this is a terrific closer.

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Connor Ray Music artist: The Bob Lanza Blues Band - Kids, Dogs & Krazy Women - New Release Review

I just had the opportunity to review the most recent release, Kids, Dogs & Krazy Women from The Bob Lanza Blues Band and it's a super dose of old style blues with a fresh feel. Opening with title track, Kids, Dogs and Krazy Women, Bob Lanza (vocal and guitar), Anthony Krizan (guitar, vocal, drums and percussion), John Ginty (keys), Dave Lockhart (bass) and Vin Mott (drums, harmonica) are a force to be reckoned with. With a slinky rhythm, solid vocals, slide guitar and harp, this track is a cool opener. Texas boogie Not The Man I Use To Be is one of my favorite tracks on the release with it's droning bass line, B3 soloing by Ginty and gripping blues solo by Lanza. very nice. Another of my favorites is Full Time Lover with it's slow, blues guitar riffs and soulful vocals. Excellent! Hey Cotton is a strong track with a driving blues pace and rock n roll guitar riffs and hot harp work by Mott in tribute to James Cotton. Shuffle track, Every Side of Lonesome has a familiar Chicago feel with great harp tone from Mott. Another excellent track is Let Me In showcasing Ginty's notable piano work. Wrapping the release is instrumental, Raritan River Stomp with an easy pace and acoustic slide. Super closer for a really nice release. 

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Big Blue Records artist: Barbara Blue - Fish in dirty H2O - New Release Review

I just had the opportunity to review the most recent release, Fish in dirty H2O, from Barbara Blue and it's solid. Opening with My Heart Belongs To The Blues, Barbara Blue is joined by Will McFarlane on guitar, Dave Smith on bass, Lester Snell on keys and Bernard Purdie on drums. With it's smooth smoky feel, Blue displays the richness of her deep voice. Boogie blues, Accidental Theft features some really nice slide work compliments of Scott Sharrard giving the track a thick gutsy texture to compliment Blues own gutsy vocals. Dr Jesus has a gospel style with warm backing vocals by Maureen Smith, Candace Mache, Lorina McMinn and Lynette "Sue" McCracklin and some spicy guitar accents by Michael Tols.  Shuffle,  Gravy Train has a sparky pace with plenty of horn by Lonnie McMillan on tenor sax, Marc Franklin on trumpet, Jim Spake on bari sax, and Steve Graham on trombone. Another bluesy shuffle, That's Working On Me works really nicely with Blues vocals and tenor sax work by McMillan gives it a jazzy polish. Wrapping the release Blue pulls out Robert Johnson's Come On In My Kitchen and with a slow, spiritual like twist and the warm backing vocals of Mache, McMinn and McCracklin and the B3 of Rick Steff give it a fresh appeal making it an excellent closer.

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Shining Stone Records artist: Anthony Geraci - Why Did You Have To Go - New Release Review

I just had the opportunity to review the most recent release, Why Did You Have To Go, from Anthony Geraci, and it's rich. Opening with R&B title track, Why Did You Have To Go, Sugar Ray Norcia is upfront on lead vocal backed by Michael Mudcat Ward on bass, Marty Richards on drums, Sax Gordon on sax, Doug Woolverton on trumpet and with stellar guitar styling by Monster Mike Welch and piano wizardry by Anthony Geraci. Excellent opener. Bluesy ballad, Angelina, Angelina is really strong with really nice piano work by Geraci and lead vocals by Sugaray Rayford. Welch is back again with signature tone, backed by Willie J Campbell on bass and Jimi Bott on drums. Very nice. Soul track, Two Steps Away From The Blues, features Michelle "Evil Gal" Willson on lead vocal with warm piano and B3 work by Geraci. Norcia is back on vocal and harp on Time's Running Out, an easy shuffle, joined by nice pace piano work by Geraci and the strong guitar accents by Ronnie Earl. One of my favorite tracks on the release is Baptized In The River Yazoo with Willie J Laws on piano duet with Geraci. The piano work here is terrific. Another track with dazzling piano is Too Many Bad Decisions with Dennis Brennan on lead vocal and Welch on guitar. Slow blues, My Last Good-Bye digs in deep with Norcia on vocal and harp. Piano tension and guitar excellence (by Earl) really gives this track edge, making it another of my choices for the release. Wrapping the release is jazzy A Minor, Affair with Troy Gonyea and Geraci leading the foundation of the track which features nice trumpet and sax solos by Wooverton and Beadle and a flight fingered guitar solo by Kid Ramos. Excellent closer for a strong release. 

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