WFHB Music - Bloomington Community Radio

Chiarelli, Rita – “Sweet Paradise” (Independent) B

Canadian, three-octave vocalist Chiarelli can’t really be classified as a blues singer, although she continues to win awards across Canada with her vocal and song-writing prowess. She toured America at age 15, worked with Ronnie Hawkin’s group in Canada and then lived and did studio session work in Italy for six years. In the late 80s returned to Canada where she began to knock over every award they have, often sharing spots with Colin Linden. Vocals gruff and growly, sometimes soaring and heavy on the vibrato, she has no trouble with the power notes and all songs are originals. Reminds me of a smoother Janis Joplin—a commanding singer, but not always my cup of tea.

Dr. Tequila – “Dr. Tequila” (Straw House Entertainment) C+

Described as Latin Blues, Richie Barron and band sport the name of Dr. Tequila and put it over with electric guitar and a big emphasis on backup horns in rockin’ Latin style. PARTY band….largely rock. Nice chick backs on a couple of tunes (#3). Toss back a few Johnny Walker Black’s before listening, or catch ‘em at Cheeseburger in Paradise.

Feldman, Tom & The Get-Rites – “Tribute” (Magnolia Recording) B

Minnesota Blues player, Tom Feldman learned about many early country blues artists when he was 17 and although his career has continued in more modern blues, Feldman decided to put out a disc in tribute of these early masters and selections that demonstrate their spiritual sides. Claiming John Lee Hooker taught him how to strum and Muddy Waters taught him how to slide, he runs through old time gospel picks of his heroes. Slightly wobbly vocals over really stellar guitar work and minimal/very appropriate backup on these old spirituals.

Hawkins, Ernie – “Whinin’ Boy” (Corona Records) B

Ernie Hawkins is a dedicated fingerstyle guitarist and expert player of acoustic blues, following the tradition of the Rev. Gary Davis, though he makes the songs his own while demonstrating his reverence for the originals. His ragtime and gospel tunes are the real thing, and although typically acoustic fingerstyle blues is underappreciated by the general blues audience, Hawkins keeps after it and delivers each and every time he issues a CD. Often invited as a session player for Maria Muldaur, Hawkins is touted by her, Jorma Kaukonen (himself an excellent fingerstylist) and widely appreciated as a “link” between the old masters and the fingerstylists of today. Hawkins covers old favorites from Jelly Roll Morton, his mentor the Rev. Gary Davis, a few originals and even Irving Berlin’s “Blue Skies.” His tolerable vocals tell the stories over his stellar guitar and some interesting horn backups (esp. tuba a la Leon Redbone).

Peterson, Lucky – “You Can Always Turn Around” (Dreyfus Jazz) A

Lucky Peterson was born into a blues family (son of James Peterson, nightclub owner in Buffalo, NY—friend to many blues stars); had an R&B hit (“1-2-3-4”) at age six (!), took it on the Ed Sullivan show; and at age 17 he signed on as Little Milton’s keyboardist for three years. A triple-threat (keyboards, guitars and vocals, Peterson went another three years with Bobby Blue Bland, soaking up the singer’s soulful vocals. He put out his own record in the early ‘90’s, did session work for Etta James, Kenny Neal and Otis Rush (!), and kept after his solo work as well. Peterson still keeps his music going in many directions, but this release really showcases the skills he’s gathered along with way. It shows a wicked sense of rhythm, style, and rough but sweet vocals. Very cool to hear bad-ass resonator (#3) right next to some smooth keyboards (#4—a song instantly picked up for a national commercial).This guy is bristling with cool.

Rogers, Robin – “Back in the Fire” (Blind Pig) B+

Songstress who original on a Canadian label and hit the ground running with the rare clear, supple, yet powerful blues voice. Her first disc went over well and she went to Blind Pig who continues to promote her in style. Recently diagnosed with a life-threatening disorder, she currently draws the support of the blues community (as well as her mutli-talented producer, songwriter, guitarist and husband, Tony) to put together a great CD. I love it that she makes a clear voice work so well in the blues.. Seven of the 11 tunes are originals by the duo and this song sports her first showing as a harp player – not bad.

Specter, Dave – “Spectrified” (Fret 12 Productions) B+

Fluid blues guitarist Dave Specter has specialized in honing guitar chops and serving as a side man for other vocalists. However, for some time he’s been putting out solo CDs…usually with guest vocalists to put the package over the top (the lack of his own vocals are a serious challenge to his popularity with the blues audience. His chops, though are excellent. He isn’t afraid to put out an all instrumental disc though—something only people like Ronnie Earl seem to be able to pull off in blues. This effort, however, is teamed up with an on-line show that feastures videos, lessons and interviews. This CD is the musical part. Wide promotion of the online/audio package is promised. Meanwhile, Dave delivers his usual stellar guitar work here and on cut 8, David Hidalgo guests (Los Lobos) serves up some nice accordion. Most songs suitable for all mixes.