Blues CD Reviews 2-13-06
Big Maybelle - "Same Old Story" (St. Clair Entertainment) AA forerunner and contemporary of Billie Holliday, Big Maybelle is paid less attention and it's a shame. In these cuts you hear her influence on Billie. She had R & B sewn up and fronts a big band with all the trimmings, still commanding the ear with super expressive vocals. They alternately soar over the top, or smoothly moan for your attention and get it. Good for all mixes and just plain good. Some tunes a little dated, but still well done. Fantastic cover of "Only You" later made famous by the Platters. (Cathi Norton)
Lightnin' Hopkins - "Just Pickin'" (St. Clair Entertainment) A+
If you ever get confused about what blues really is, slap this baby on and remember. Lightnin' Hopkins was a Texas master of blues with feeling and minimum instrumentation. His voice and guitar were enough to hold entire all night dance parties. Soul-drenched with occasional backups by a single snare drum or bass, sometimes with partner "Thunder" Smith (piano) from whence he originally got his "Lightnin'" moniker), and sometimes just on solo guitar. Fantastic disc and good for all mixes. Another in a series of "Genius of Blues" discs being put out by St. Clair. (Cathi Norton)
Bill Wyman's Rhythm Kings -- "Live" (Fuel) A-
Former Rolling Stones bassist has many guests to help with this live set, improving what Wyman can sing himself. (Bob Kissel)
Nighthawk Band -- (Self Titled) (Nighthawk) C-
Bad garage blues rock -- not recommended. (Cathi Norton)
posted by Cathi N @ 6:10:00 AM
0 comments
0 Comments:
Post a Comment
<< Home