Cathi's Reviews -- 1-11-09
Alexander, Arthur – “Lonely Just Like Me: The Final Chapter” (Hacktone Rec.) AA fabulous songwriter and singer, Alexander penned and wrote a great many songs that were covered by the Beatles, the Rolling Stones, and Bob Dylan long before anyone had heard of him. A tumultuous relationship with fame left him “undiscovered” even after that, but just as those famous musicians drew attention to other musicians (most notably a lot of Afro-Americans stuck on the Chitlin circuit over here in the States), The British boys’ attention to his songs, but as a writer he was secret hero to John Hiatt, Keith Richards and a long list of others…leading to a record he made late in life: “Lonely Just Like Me.” Masters of “feel” – Dann Penn , Spooner Oldham, Gary Nicholson, etc. had a heavy hand in backing the star. The success of that record was immediately and unfortunately followed by Alexander’s death. This CD is a collection of some of his best recordings done at that time, coupled with live, radio, and recorded performances. A great prospective on a really great writer/singer.
Various – “Broadcasting the Blues” (Southwest Musical Arts Fdn.) B
A great collection of blues artists that appeared on Bob Corritore (owner/operator of Phoenix’s “Rhythm Room” club and long-time DJ/harmonica player) radio show. This is his 25th year on the air and these cuts represent some of the greats who have appeared on air. Clubs are getting scarce and Corritore keeps his going and his radio show helps keep them alive so more power to him. Nice selection of acoustic-live radio blues and commentary intros from a wide variety of old and young blues stars (Billy Boy Arnold, Billy Flynn, Lazy Lester, Otis Clay, Lowell Fulson, etc. Good for all mixes.
Various – “Tribute to James ‘Yank” Rachel” (Yanksville Records) A
Admiring artists do versions of Yank’s mandolin blues. S’ got John Sebastian, Rich DelGrosso, Tim Obrien, Mike Seeger, and even Indiana’s (and Yank’s Friends Allen Stratyner and Gordon Bonham) and his devoted granddaughter, Sheena—what a tribute. This is a treat to see his old songs done on mandolin and keeping his spirit alive. These are great tunes – done extremely well and Yank would have loved it. All good for all mixes. Play and enjoy ‘em!
posted by Cathi N @ 1:37:00 PM
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