CD Review: Jerome Godboo Deja-Vu, Baby
-- by Joe Curtis --
Jerome Godboo's new CD, Deja-Vu Baby is a joy to listen to from beginning to end. The baby Jerome's holding on the CD's 'mystical' cover, is his son, Solomon Godland -- (even the baby rocks! Apparently he likes to play Daddy's harps, too!) This thoroughly entertaining CD features special guest, Suzie McNeil on lead/background vocals, belting out her usual powerful vocals and new-found harp technique, complementing Jerome's in every way. The other musicians in the lineup are ex-Phantoms and Jerome Godboo Band alumni, Gregory-Ray Tunis on lead guitar and background vocals, John "Mr. Happy" Daly, on guitars, JJ T-Bone White playing some awesome bass -- and another familiar face (from the Reggae Cowboys, and The Mosquitos), Derek Lindo's energetic drumming, all the way through this absolutely thrilling CD. (Drummer, Phil Michael, who at the time of this recording, played all Jerome's live concerts, was unavailable to do the recording sessions, but the replacement choice in Lindo, was excellent!)
This brilliantly conceived CD opens with "Jungle", a fun poke at corporate stifling, and the freedom of getting back to nature. It features excellent call and answer responses in the vocals, provided by Jerome and Suzie, along with some scorching lead guitar licks by Tunis, making "Jungle" a real winner. "Go Go" is the next upbeat fun song on this multi-atmosphere, CD. This is a perfect party song, due to the energy and vitality in Jerome's vocals, as well as in his thoroughly melodic harp solos.
"High School Reunion", is the only reggae-influenced tune on the CD, which, although drifting from Jerome's usual genre, has Godboo's trademark 'sound' written all over it! (They're all Godboo originals on this highly creative and thoroughly imaginative CD) The melancholy laments of loves remembered, lost and longed for, are echoed in Suzie's and Jerome's voices. They both sing right from their hearts, with instrumentals that truly complement this soulful rendition.
Jerome's brother-in-law, Hughie "Mr. Natural" Shankland, helps Jerome "Cook it up, Baby", on the vocals of "Cook It Up", the fourth delightful track on this incredible CD. Hughie's exuberance helps the audience "cook it up" at many of Godboo's live appearances. He often gets up on stage to help Jerome and the rest of this fine blues-influenced band rock "Mr. Natural". His totally uninhibited, natural dance interpretations, helps get the audience really going on it, too! JJ 's pulsating bass lines permeate all the tunes on 'Deja-Vu, Baby', and are indispensable to the character of the CD. Jose Gonzales' ingenious percussion contribution -- with bird sounds, wind whistles and chimes - definitely adds atmosphere and depth to the various tracks -- especially on the title tune, "Deja-Vu". Jose's genius is also heard with great effect and purpose on "Street Detective", as well as on "Vulture Culture, the last unforgettable track on this well-conceived CD.
Chris Pera's drums, Sha Sha's percussion, and Phil Emond's keyboards on "Vulture Culture" add particular atmosphere to this song. The insightful lyrics in "Vulture …" sing the problems of the environment -- (nuclear power plant spills; ground and lake water poisoning; harmful sunlight due to the ozone holes; impure food additives and hard drug abuse). These important issues are effectively dealt with by Jerome, who brings his inner perspective to the forefront on this multi-faceted Godboo original . Emond also produced and mixed this tune, as well as supplying some fine keyboard riffs.
My favorite track on 'Deja-Vu, Baby' has to be "Bye, Bye Love". I feel it possesses some of the purest and clearest vocals I've ever heard from Jerome - (I've seen many of his live performances). The conviction in Godboo's voice adds to this tune's very strong appeal. The haunting lament of lost love and hopes for a new one (or reconciliation), have a most intense and real aura to them. They're sung from Jerome's, soul, and are a needed emotional boost. Godboo is regarded by many, to be one of the finest singers and harp players in Canada - he definitely has his own unique style. His band is one of the most popular on the current live music scene. (as a side note: Besides fronting his own band, Godboo is harp player for Rompin' Ronnie Hawkins, in the Hawks. www.ronniehawkins.com While in the Hawk's band, Jerome has performed for U.S. President Bill Clinton). Suzie's vocals are also deep and expressive, which easily explains why they perfectly complement Jerome's.
This CD has a very 'live' feel to it!, thanks to Alec Fraser's expert handling of it's production at Liquid Sound, here in Toronto. Alec (who has at times played bass for Juno-winner, Jack de Keyzer), adds imaginative background vocals to "Vulture Culture". Scottish-born Fraser's also over the years, won numerous awards as a music producer and musician himself. His recording studio, Liquid Sound is one of the very best in Canada, and has had the likes of drummers Willie 'Big Eyes' Smith (Muddy Waters) and Levon Helm (The Band/Bob Dylan/Ronnie Hawkins) grace its hallowed recording halls.
"Home" combines Godboo's melodic harp solo, with lyrical vocals of universal appeal -- related to anyone who has left home, but is always welcomed back.
"Mr. Natural", the ninth spectacular track on this extremely cool CD, is quite naturally a lot of fun. It always reminds me of Jerome's live gigs, when Hughie gets up on stage to do his highly emotional let-loose dance interpretations. This tune includes a rousing rhythm section, accompanying Jerome's exuberant vocals. "I Wanna Go Home" is an atmospheric, moody piece, featuring Godoo's hauntingly beautiful harp intro. The Godboo-penned lyrics, sung by him, are profound and deep -- a true reflection of Jerome as a spiritual being. This is no truer than with the lyrical message -- "It's a long journey we're all on -- the road is dark here -- I want to go home!" Subjectively speaking I feel it triggers off a universal, emotional bond with this writer - as I feel Godboo hopes it will with the listening audience.
"Deja-Vu" is a mystical "concept" song from beginning to end. The brilliant use of Jose Gonzales' percussion and sound effects, creates an enchanting, atmospheric quality that's some of the best I've ever heard -- (Pink Floyd's "Echoes" being the closest to capture this musical imagery.) Jerome's and Suzie's vocals tell the story of 'deja-vu' relationships, that seem to echo out of a 'fog'. This superb composition is followed by "Street Detective" -- an instrumental, featuring a sweet, melodic harp solo -- admirably enhanced by equally imaginative bass, drums and Jose's moody sound effects.
The last song on this spectacular CD is "Vulture Culture". Its lyrics make a strong, forceful commentary in Godboo's vocals -- of the seriousness of cleaning up the problems in our environment. He touches on everything that's important (the way Michael Landon did in the last episode of 'Highway To Heaven'). Many ecological tragedies are mentioned -- ground and lake water poisoning, PCB's, STP's, Nuclear Power Plant spillages and ozone hole damage. The environmental pollution depicted in the vivid but non-threatening lyrics, ties into the fear of going out in the sunlight, air pollution, harmful food additives and hard drug abuse. These topics are covered with taste and intelligence in this spectacular musical essay. "Vulture…" touches on the most important issues we have facing us on Earth today. There's also a glimmer of hope in this awesome tune, that these problems can be reversed in the world. The inner 'delving' on 'Deja-Vu, Baby' is definitely a commentary on the spiritual essence of Jerome Godboo in creating this masterful work of musical art -- entertaining, and good for the soul and mind of man!
Artist: Jerome Godboo
CD: Déjà-Vu, Baby # JGGD112
Email: jeromegodboo@yahoo.ca
Website: www.jeromegodboo.com
Website: www.jimmybowskill.com
CD Review - Mark 'bird' Stafford - Harpspace
-- by Joe Curtis --
'Harpspace' is the new, anxiously awaited second CD from Canada's own master harp virtuoso, Mark 'bird' Stafford. Mark's been around the Toronto blues scene for years, and is a permanent fixture on the Toronto blues skyline - he's without question, among the finest of Canada's blues elite, and is well respected by fans and players alike! 'Harpspace' is a classic blues CD in its own time. The title track "Harpspace", opens this beautiful 'harp space' in the listener's 'blues soul', with jazzy orchestration and exquisite harmonies. This gourmet 'blues concoction' is combined with Tyler Yarema's intricate piano stylings, and is driven by Alec Fraser's emphatic bass lines - epitomizing class and good taste all the way! Only four of the 12 well-chosen tracks on 'Harpspace' are from other composers. The eight Mark Stafford originals are instant classics in every way - a definitive Stafford blues assemblage!!!
Johnny 'Guitar' Watson's "Gangster of Love", is done with imaginative creativity, owing much to Stafford's vivid story-telling ability in his effortless vocals, and the energy of his mucho-talented rhythm section. Yarema's piano riffs command attention and appreciation, as does the strong horn section, comprised of multi-tracks by award winning sax player Pat Carey, (of the Downchild Blues Band).
Stafford original "I'll Be Back", is blues 'heaven' at its best. (I bet if Sonny Boy ll could come back, he'd be shakin' his fingers and jivin' to this one! He might even wanna play along!) Mel Brown's piano playing is invigorating in every way, and helps send this winner home in a big way, as does Shane Scott's relentlessly pulsating bass lines! Stafford's harp playing really outdoes itself in every way it can. His vocals tell it all, and leave the listener addictively needing more. "I'll Be Back" is one of those infectious blues creations, that causes the blues musician in all of us, to want to pick up a guitar and play along, (even if only 'air-guitar')!!! "Bunnie Bop Boogie" is a rousing harp trip, with story-telling vocals sung admirably by Stafford. The harp 'travelling' on this one can take the listener to an ethereal blues high, boppin' 'n hoppin' all the way to Easter and back!
"Party Girl" is an upbeat swing blues, with all the classic characteristics of the old-time classic it is. Guitarist Pete Schmidt's rousing lead riffs belong on any party scene - clear as a bell, and well chosen! Stafford wails his love to "Ruby", with appropriate response from Tyler Yarema's insightful piano riffs and muted trumpet phrasing -- seemingly right out of a '20s speakeasy. "I'm a Lovin' Man", (I've gotta get next to you) -- is a rousing Stafford original, that'll get even the most reluctant blues lover up on the dance floor. Everyone gives their 'all' on this one. Mark's harp playing is superb, as is Schmidt's 'crying' guitar riffs, Bob Vespaziani's soul-driven drumming, and Ka Cheong Liu's 'brutal' bass lines.
This pace is relaxed in the best way possible, with some slow, Robert Johnson-style blues. Stafford mentions "I'm gonna cook for you … save ya from those nasty falls", on another Stafford original, "Take a Step Back". The unintended 'Muddy Waters'-inflected' vocal characteristics Stafford displays here, are as refreshing as they are unintended. His harp genius is very apparent, interpreting every heartfelt nuance that his imagination and talent can muster up. Juno Award-winning blues guitarist Jack de Keyzer, adds some mouthwatering slide guitar on "Take a Step … " -- engendering an uncontrollable desire to make a mad rush to the CD player, to put this winner on repeat again. Jimmy Reed is chosen to entertain through his timeless "Shame, Shame, Shame" (the way you do! … shame on you!) Stafford's harp playing speaks deeply of the 'shame', and is reinforced in its zeal by Joe Burns' upright bass lines drivin' the message home -- with lots of help from Greg Cooper's relentless drumming genius.
"Follow My Heart" is slow and driving, like the pounding of the slave driver's hammer to the beat of the slaves rowing the slave-ship to certain despair. This one hits that message home with certainty. Mark's vocals crush the listener's blues heart, and are reinforced with his harp sorrow. Cheong Liu's upright bass lines sound like hands hammering to get out of an 'emotional coffin', with enthusiastic encouragement from Vespaziani's emphatic drumming.
"I'm Coming Home" breaks the bleak blues mood, with style, imagination and zest. Stafford's vocals are uplifting and reassuring! William York's "I've Had My Fun", is just that -- fun, uplifting blues!!! Mark goes nuts on harp on this one. So does Cheong Liu on upright bass, along with Vespaziani's zing on the skins. There's more than enough swing 'n zing in "I've Had … ", to get any blues lover to want to do a 'double-shift' on the good old CD player with 'Harpspace'. The finely crafted blues contained herein, is one of those rare collections that entices the blues urge to play this CD and enjoy it often - in other words 'Harpspace' is a much-need blues 'fix'; to put it mildly, but succinctly!
Artist: Mark 'bird' Stafford
Album: 'Harpspace'
Label: Lily Jean Records # BM002
Email: birdstafford@sympatico.ca
Website: www.markbirdstafford.com
CD Review - Downchild Blues Band - Body of Work
- The Downchild Collection Vol. 2
-- by Joe Curtis --
The Downchild Blues Band have done it again - another blues-packed 'greatest hits' CD, Body of Work - The Downchild Collection Vol. 2. It's jam-packed with 72 minutes worth of fine Downchild classics, culled from their immense library of fantastic blues tunes. Most of the 20 songs on Vol. 2 are Downchild originals, and are written by Downchild co-founder, Donnie "Mr. Downchild" Walsh. One's by the immortal Elmore James, and another by Fleecie Moore. Body of Work begins with 1987's high energy "Bop Til' I Drop". The late, great Tony Flaim's rousing vocals say it all, with class all the way! Donnie goes nuts on harp here, as only he can. (Being coached in his musical 'infancy' by harp great James Cotton, I'm sure had something to do with it.) A slow "Wednesday Night Blues" from 1993, follows. The bluesy conversation between Chuck Jackson's determined vocals and Donnie's impressive guitar leads, confirms their blues to each other, and to the listener. Tyler Burgess' precise drumming is a major asset on this one!
Some deep, mesmerizing grooves are laid down in "When the Morning Comes", from 1996's Lucky 13. It features more inspired Jackson vocals, scorching 'Mr. Downchild' guitar licks, along with fine backup bass lines from Gary Kendall; Pat Carey on saxes, and Jim Casson on drums. Just when we hit the bottom of this blues chasm we soar up to a bluesy sky, with some upbeat happy blues, courtesy of "Oh! Oh!", from 1980's We Deliver. The impeccable Flaim burns his energizing vocals to the soul; while Donnie's intriguing guitar licks, along with the late Ms. Jane Vasey's piano riffs and Frank Russell's drumming keep things rollin' along nicely. Kendall's funeral dirge-like bass lines intro in "I'm Alone", also from Deliver, complements Flaim's vocals, as they cry out the tune's theme. Donnie's country-style guitar leads speak well musically to Ms. Vasey's sorrowful piano riffs.
"Caldonia", from '75's Ready To Go, is the perfect dance party blues tune. More rousing vocals from Flaim, along with Vasey's energetic piano playing, David Woodward's sax wizardry, and Donnie's harp coolness, send this one over the top! "My Aching Heart", also from Ready, throbs from a deep place where all blues comes from. Ms. Vasey's piano tinkling on "Aching" gives the feeling that there's more to life than the 'aching heart'. Donnie's harp playing rocks it up real well on "Do the Parrott". The whole band joins in on this rousing instrumental, which demonstrates why Downchild have remained popular and vital on the international blues scene since the good old days of Toronto's infamous Rochdale College in the early '70's, and their first recordings in it's underground parking garage!
"Where Have You Gone", from '87's It's Been So Long, is energy in itself! Plug in and enjoy this one - Flaim belts out the title question with determination, while Mike McKenna's world-class slide guitar playing is well-showcased -- along with Donnie's stupendous harp playing; Dennis Pinhorn's incredible bass lines, and Sonnie Bernardi's heavy duty drumming. Ya can't beat it!
Some soft, unassuming piano riffs courtesy of Ms. Vasey, provide an appropriate intro to Donnie's vocals declaring "I've Been a Fool", from 1980's We Deliver. The unique feature on this tune is that Donnie speaks rather than sings the intermittent vocals, but musically cries some scorching lead guitar riffs that tell it all! "Old Ma Bell", from '75, is a real rouser in every way. Flaim's vocals and Bill Bryans' drumming hold it all together, along with Jim Milne's groovin' bass lines.
If you're feelin' 'dead' and need a boost, 1974's "Madison Blues" from the Dancing lp, will do it for ya! Everyone on this tune are absolutely outstanding, from Ms. Vasey's piano riffs, Donnie's slithery slide guitar, Milne's stimulating bass lines, Nat Abraham's tenor sax and Cash Wall's go getting' drumming. "Talk With My Heart" from 1989's Gone Fishin' lp, features the late Richard "Hock" Walsh on vocals. His soulful and versatile singing style lends character to this tune, and provides trademark Downchild 'identity'! Hock along with his brother Donnie, are the original Downchild co-founders. Hock's vocals are showcased well on the Hock original, "Don't Make My Baby Mad" (It's the only Hock-written tune on this CD), and like "Talk With...", is from the great 1989 Fishin' lp. His mournful pleas about 'his baby', are believable and have depth. Jackson's vocals on "Last Chance to Dance", from 1996's Lucky 13 lp, 'blows the roof off this sucker'! Not to be outdone, Donnie's harp playing, Pat Carey's always mind-blowin' sax playing, Casson's wild drumming, and Kendall's always-in-the-groove bass lines, definitely get this 'sucka' goin'! 1980's "Try to Fall In Love Again", from Road Fever, features some scorching leads, courtesy of Mr. Downchild. Flaim's equally impressive vocals go all out, as do Kendall's bass lines, Ms. Vasey's keys, Bob Heslin's trumpet, and Rich House's sax playing.
"One More Chance" from '75, is rousing blues in the true sense. Donnie's slide guitar playing seems to speak it's own bluesy language here, while Flaim's vocals bellow out a request for 'one more chance'. They're backed up admirably by Woodward's strong sax playing. Flaim suggests "Let's Go Strollin'", and has plenty of support on this one from 1974, courtesy of Ms. Vasey's keys 'magic', along with Mr. Dowchild's impeccable guitar leads. Wall's drumming and Abraham's sax playing, round this tune out nicely.
"Not This Time" from '87, is knee-slappin' good all the way through. Donnie's vocals tell it all in this one, with poignant lyrics like "went out in a wool coat, came back in a mink... How much? I shudder to think!... You did the playin', 'n I ain't payin'!". Donnie then rouses the proceedings up real good with his mind-blowin' harp blowin' creativity. The band echoes back Donnie's sentiments in their background vocals, and strong rhythm section. Can't get any better, and tells it like it is... 'sometimes'!
The pace continues with another super-rouser, "I'm Finished", from 1993's Good Times Guaranteed. (Coincidentally, it's the last tune on this very fine blues CD.) Jackson belts out his vocals like any seasoned pro from the deep south, complemented by Donnie's equally masterful slide guitar playing -- that seems to speak the 'language of the blues', with all the style and class that makes all fine blues players great! Mike Fonfara's rockin' piano riffs are outta this world, as is Burgess' always in-the-pocket drumming, and Gary Latimer's groovin' bass lines.
This 72 minute long greatest hits Vol. 2 follow-up to Downchild's excellent A Matter of Time - The Downchild Collection, Vol. 1, seems to end far too early. Thank goodness it's on CD where it can be enjoyed again and again. The engendered musical 'craving' contained within this CD, is the main reason why the Downchild Blues Band has continued to be Canada's premier blues band for over 30 years. The blues legacy contained in this Vol. 2 CD, is just part of that reason. You owe it to yourself to see Downchild live, whenever they come your way. Meanwhile you can enjoy this superlative CD, to get your own Downchild 'fix' 'til then!!!
Artist: Downchild Blues Band
Label: Blue Wave Records # 144
Album: 'Body of Work' - The Downchild Collection Vol. 2
Downchild Blues Band website: www.downchild.com
Blue Wave Records website: www.bluewaverecords.com
Blue Wave Records email: bluewave@localnet.com
Gary Kendall Band at Ziggy's Sports Pub, in Toronto, Ontario,
Sat. Feb. 7, 2004
-- by Joe Curtis --
It was an extreme pleasure to see the Gary Kendall Band at a small but nevertheless friendly and rousing club called Ziggy's, in the East York area of Toronto, Ontario, Saturday, February 7, 2004. When I walked into this fabulous 'blues joint', (which every Sat. night it definitely is!) I couldn't believe my eyes and ears! Kendall, who's bassist for the Downchild Blues Band, (Canada's 'Premier Blues Band' for over 30 years), has put together the most intriguing combo I've ever seen - Kendall on bass; along with long-time keys master Brian Fraser playing Johnnie Johnson-style boogie woogie/rock 'n roll electric piano/vocals. Added to this impressive roster is the always-entertaining Tyler Burgess on drums/vocals, and some very cool blues harp! Burgess is also in a band with his brother Chris, aptly named the Burgess Brothers. He's toured with Stompin' Tom Connors and the Downchild Blues Band. He's also performed with guitarist Mike McKenna, of 'Toronto Sound' blues band, Mainline.
Being a bassist myself, anything bass always intrigues me. So this very special lineup assembled by Kendall, was indeed a treat! It proved beyond a doubt that it's possible to have a fabulous blues band, without the absolute need for a guitarist! I never thought such a unique configuration as this was possible... but here it is! A musical 'revelation' if I've ever encountered one! Although Kendall's bass lines didn't have guitar licks to rely on, he made up for it with some very cool lead blues riffs; that seemingly added 'more bottom end' to Fraser's already captivating talent on the ivores! What an ingenious arrangement!
Now, on to the fabulous blues, boogie woogie and rock 'n roll that got things hoppin' at Ziggy's to it's all-natural, all-wood rafters! Chuck Berry's "Oh Carol" happily greeted me as I came in the door! Fraser's vocals were energetic, and the whole band whooped it up real good! The crowd was cheering and the fans were hot on the dance floor, groovin' to the blues rhythms! This was followed with classic excellence by one of the 'Night Tripper' Dr. John's big hits, "Such A Night". Fraser's keys 'magic' really outdid itself, as did Kendall's insightful bass lines, and Tyler's in-the-groove technique on the skins. Fraser's 'Night Tripper'-like vocals perfectly complemented the proceedings; while Tyler's harp solo helped send this one over the top!
Big Joe Turner's classic "Roll Baby, Roll" was performed with ballistic excellence by all concerned. 'Mr. Five By Five' Turner himself, would be impressed! Some entrancing boogie-woogie piano riffs from Fraser's talented fingers, admirably did justice to this tune! Fraser's playing style is reminiscent of that of keys master Johnnie Johnson. Kendall's vocals were rousing, and the dance floor was hoppin'!
The crowd was so won over at this point, that they demanded and got two encores! The first featured Kendall's rousing vocals, and a lead bass solo on "Train". Kendall's imaginative bass solo made the 'train' trip to Ziggy's all the more enjoyable! The final encore of this very fun evening, was "Snatch It Back" -- a slow, classic blues tune as only true masters of the genre can put it across. Lyrics like "Somebody Gotta Help Me, Can't Do It By Myself" were sung with vivid reality by Burgess, and were re-enforced by the expert rhythm section of Kendall and Fraser. After this second encore, the blues fans at Ziggy's still wanted more! However, in consideration for nearby residents, this very worthwhile and highly entertaining evening of blues had to come to an end. The good thing is, there are plenty more rollicking blues parties every Saturday night at Ziggy's with fun guy extraordinaire, Ziggy himself! (Yes, there is a real Ziggy, <who so happens, is an ex-Croation soccer star/builder> .. hence the fabulous sports motif and stained wood paneling throughout!) So, on that note I'll finish this review, while anxiously awaiting my next fun and very bluesy visit to Ziggy's.
Gary Kendall
Email: bluestime47@hotmail.com
Downchild Blues Band: www.downchild.com
Ziggy's Sports Pub
951 Pape Ave.
Toronto, Ontario
Canada
416-423-5444
www.ziggyssportspub.com
Jimmy Burns Band at the Silver Dollar Room, Toronto, Ontario,
Sat. Feb. 7, 2004
-- by Joe Curtis --
Delmark recording artists, The Jimmy Burns Band hailing from Chicago, Ill, made a rare and long-awaited appearance at the Silver Dollar Room in Toronto, Ontario, Sat. Feb. 7, 2004. It was three long years since their last memorable appearance at the Dollar here in Toronto - and that is far too long for such an immensely talented blues band as the Jimmy Burns Band is! It was definitely a real treat to see them again. Jimmy was in top form that night, on lead and rhythm guitar -- as was his high-energy rhythm guitarist Tony Palmer, and extremely imaginative and melodious bassist Ron Lasken. Special guest on drums that night was Merle Perkins, the awesomely gifted drummer for blues great Eddie 'The Chief' Clearwater - these Chicago blues artists really believe in helping each other out when a regular band member can't make it to a gig! (A real 'blues family'!)
When I arrived at the Silver Dollar, Jimmy was singing a lamenting doo-wop tune - refreshing... and nostalgic! He wailed some sweet guitar licks that seemed to cry out the story his vocals were telling. Every classic tune the Jimmy Burns Band performed, featured some vibrant lead guitar riffs by Burns. Lasken's melodic, lead bass lines, supported Burns' lead guitar solos throughout this highly enjoyable evening of classic Chicago blues - played by those who know how! Drummer Perkins, stayed in the groove on every tune, supplying the vital percussive support that made this evening a truly special blues event!
The Dollar was packed with highly appreciative blues fans all night long. There was definitely a strong turnout of blues aficianados; most of whom had not seen Jimmy's band in the three years since their last inspired performance here in 2001. I was there that night too, and remember it vividly - a memory good for the soul!
Thanks to Ontario blues promoter/agent Rico Ferrara ('Blues For a Big Town') and Silver Dollar booking agent/Downchild bassist, Gary Kendall ('Bluestime Productions'), Burns et al again made a pilgrimage from Chicago to the Dollar to entertain us with some of the finest blues around -- as only they know how! At one point in these extremely bluesy proceedings, rhythm guitarist Palmer took over lead guitar duties; rocking this venerable blues landmark to its bluesily historic rafters! When this happened, Jimmy switched to rhythm guitar and sang lead vocals, while Perkins raced along on the skins, with Laskens' bass ingenuity adding 'electric' excitement - rousing the crowd to roar their unrestrained approval! We all felt real lucky to be in attendance that night!
One of the great tunes performed was the upbeat R&B inspired, and very funky "Shake For Me". In this tune, Burns sang about his "hip-shakin' Mama" and told her she could "shake it for me"! It obviously had a positive effect on the audience -- the dance floor was hoppin' with the kind of vibe that keeps a crowd in the party mood! Early '60s Vee-Jay classic "Monkey Time" helped keep the energetic pace flowing with ease! Some awesome, hard-drivin' blues rocked the Dollar with all-out abandon! The mesmerizing Chicago-style rhythmic melodies emanating from the Burns band, were world-class all the way! No blues festival could have had it better!
Jimmy may not be heralded far and wide the way B.B. or Hound Dog are; but he sure deserves to be! The Burns Band's theme song "Leavin' Here Walkin'" was a real crowd pleaser! The audience showed ecstatic approval on the dance floor -- and in their happy hoots 'n hollers afterwards. "Back To the Delta" took us all 'back to ..' even if some in attendance have 'never been' (to the Delta) - with soul and truly inspiring blues riffs and vocals! In the tune "Stranded In Clarksdale", some lyrical references to 'Clarksdale, Mississippi' helped the audience travel in their imaginations to America's deep south -- where the embodiment of the blues got its start!
The Jimmy Burns Band played their hearts and souls out, with unrivaled expertise on every tune. Their appearance at the Dollar was welcomed from the start. When they finished their encore of the evening, the crowd were ecstatic with their approval! The only lull was the thought that their next Toronto performance might be as long a wait as their last was. I hope the promoters and agents who helped make this fine blues event happen, see it in their bluesy wisdom to bring the Jimmy Burns Band back to good old T.O. on a return visit real soon. Otherwise a trip to Chicago - the origins of electric blues - will be in order! I think I can hear Rosa's blues place beckoning from north Chicago - better get Jimmy and his fine blues band back to the Silver Dollar real soon, ya hear! We certainly don't want to wait so long for their next highly enjoyable visit!
Artist: Jimmy Burns Band
Email: jrburns47@yahoo.com
Website: www.jimmyburnsband.com
Label: Delmark
Website: www.delmark.com
Venue: Silver Dollar Room
Website: www.silverdollarroom.com
Silver Dollar Room (Booking Agent/Promoter):
Gary Kendall - 'Bluestime Productions'
Email: bluestime47@hotmail.com
Booking Agent/Promoter: Rico Ferrara
- 'Blues For a Big Town' (Canada)
Email: ricoferrara@rogers.com
Booking: Jay Reil & Associates (U.S.A.)
Email: jay@jayreil.com
CD Review: Maria Muldaur - 'A Woman Alone with the Blues - remembering Peggy Lee'
-- by Joe Curtis --
Maria Muldaur has recently released an extremely entertaining tribute CD to the one and only, and incomparably irreplaceable, Miss Peggy Lee. This CD's appropriately and simply entitled 'A Woman Alone with the Blues - remembering Peggy Lee'. The tunes contained therein, can easily transport the listener back to a beautiful time when flamboyant 'Publicity Princes', like Miss Lee's 'Canadian Guru', Gino Empry, ( www.ginoempry.com ) booked her into opulent world-class pleasure palaces, like the Royal York Hotel's sumptuous supper club, the Imperial Room, in Toronto. This and many other world-class venues played host to Miss Lee's captivatingly enchanting vocal presence, throughout her long, illustrious career!
'remembering Peggy Lee', begins with one of her best-loved classics, "Fever". Ms. Muldaur sings an impeccable vocal rendition of this Peggy Lee classic, equally complemented by Neal Caine's fine bass solos. Caine provides the intro to "Fever" as well. David Torkanowsky's piano harmonies add beautiful body to this piece too!
Ms. Muldaur's vocals on "I Don't Know Enough About You" are slinky and seductive, and sung with finesse and a style all her own! Jim Rothermel's clarinet solos flow along like water in a stream, and are backed admirably by Arthur Lalin ll's percussive insight as well as Caine's empathetic bass lines.
Ms. Muldaur sings "Moments Like This" with slow, sultry soul. She "melts the heart with a glance" with help from Caine's beautiful bass travelling; while Danny Caron's caring guitar solo, speaks rare musical moments! Torkanowsky's tinkling of the ivories on "Moments..." can tingle the soul with fond memories of Miss Lee's many live performances in person or on TV.
"Winter Weather" is a kick-your-socks-back, upbeat swing number that Ms. Muldaur sings with carefree abandon. Her rhythm section keeps up with her like there's no tomorrow, while Rothermel's clarinet soloing seemingly sings along. The horns add a nice touch too! Dan Hicks' vocals solo responds to Ms. Muldaur's - adding romantic atmosphere to the proceedings!
"Some Cats Know" is a multi-level weaving of lyrical reflections on relationships and musicianship. Caine's bass lines are a strong point on "Some Cats.. ", with fine piano accompaniment by Torkanowsky. A very cool sax solo is provided by Rothermel. The pace quickens again, with super-swingin' "Everything's Movin' Too Fast"! New millennium attitudes are brought into focus, with lyrics like "you never eat your spinach... because you can take it in a pill". Everything's fast-paced in this tune -- from Ms. Muldaur's exquisite vocals to Torkanowsky's out-of-this-world boogie-woogie piano solo and Caine's frantically precise bass lines.
The brilliant horn section provides a musically vivid "train callin'" intro to "Waitin' For the Train to Come In". Ms. Muldaur sings of "being so melancholy since he's been away... waiting in the depot by the railway tracks, waitin' for that man to hurry back, waitin' for the train to come in." The empathetic horn section, echoes back Ms. Muldaur's feelings, while Caron's guitar solo cries out it's own inner 'longing'! Ms. Muldaur's jazzy harmonic vocalizing, along with complementing harmonies from the rhythm section, caps this one off to a tee! Not all 'train' songs are laments - "The Freedom Train" is a vivid testimony to this fact! Maria's vocals echo positive vibes throughout "Freedom .. ", 'ridin' on the Freedom Train', for all it's worth. The joy of "singing for Liberty, throughout the land... writin' the President a letter.. If you think you can do it better, then you can take his place.. he may disagree with what you're sayin', but will fight to let you say it", is the reason why this and other emotionally upbeat songs and ideologies have made America and anywhere freedom is upheld, a great place to be!
"Black Coffee" casts images of a late night 'caffeine nightcap' or an early morning wake-up -- with vivid reality! Caine's seemingly tired, lazy bass lines evoke the 'no-energy' mood, so well conveyed here. Lalin's drumming is sluggish in a good way too, which adds to the "coffee and cigarettes, nicotine" late-night, early morning mood - just the right atmosphere here, while "waitin' for my baby, to maybe come round". Rothermel's sax solo is sympathetic to Ms. Muldaur's 'cause', as is the rest of this impeccable rhythm section, as they join in - 'serenity within sluggishness'!
The slow 'n tempestuous pace continues with "all this pain I feel", in the title tune "A Woman Alone With the Blues". Ms. Muldaur "pours her soul out in song", as a "good woman who believed in her man right or wrong", if he "comes back begging for forgiveness" - "breaking any heart he choose, leaving his woman alone with the blues"! Can't get any better lyrics than these, which vividly reflect romance's hard knocks!
My personal favorite is "For Every Man There's a Woman". Ms Muldaur declares "woman was made for man... for every prince there's a princess... if you wait, you'll meet the mate born for you alone". Deep truths wrapped in and woven around fine harmonies, slinky vocals, and wise words. The song begs the question, 'who can say it better'? Some beautiful, uplifting romantic imagery and enchanting musical harmonies, provide the necessary hope in the game of love!
Ms Muldaur "goes fishin'" in "I'm Gonna Go Fishin'". The longing to find a soul mate is presented in a straightforward, yet metaphoric way that's obvious, but fun. It comes across like an old 'fish tale' that's always great to hear again... As is this finely collected package of vinyl gems, that Ms. Muldaur managed to cull from Richard Barone's superb Peggy Lee collection. Thanks to Barone's impressive collecting taste, and Ms. Muldaur's discerning sampling and singing of it, we can all enjoy Miss Peggy Lee's best-loved vocal moments, right here in 'A Woman Alone with the Blues... remembering Peggy Lee'!
Artist: Maria Muldaur
CD: 'A Woman Alone with the Blues...remembering Peggy Lee'
Label: Telarc # 83568
Website: www.telarc.com
CD Review: David Rotundo, featuring Enrico Crivellaro
- 'Blues Ignited''
-- by Joe Curtis -
David Rotundo has finally come out with his long-awaited second CD, 'Blues Ignited', featuring guitarist extraordinaire, Enrico Crivellaro. 'Blues Ignited' follows in the footsteps of David's super-success with highly acclaimed debut CD, 'Blowin' For Broke'. David's no ordinary harp player - in fact in my estimation he's the finest blues harp player to ever come out of Canada's deep well of blues talent! The raw emotion Rotundo puts into each and every tune he plays, whether live, or very much live-like, as on this CD, and also on 'Blowin' For Broke' - contains more raw blues energy in each and every note and syllable, than most blues CDs do in their entirety. I've seen live Rotundo performances, where he goes out onto the dance floor, blowin' that harp of his for all it's worth -- with girls dancing around him like whirling dirvishes at a pagan festival! That's no lie!
Packed rooms at Toronto's best hotspots for blues, "Chicago's Diner", "Silver Dollar", "Healey's" and elsewhere, have streams of blues fans dancing into the room, just from hearing snippets of Rotundo's blues magic echoing outside.
This, Rotundo's second extremely fine CD, is no exception to the captivating quality that David and his incredible band, The Blue Canadians, exude in every impeccable tune on 'Blues Ignited'. From the very first Rotundo original, "Stranger", with its scorching guitar licks and insightful and thoughtful bass lines -- to the final and very rootsy, "I've Got to Move" -- 'Blues Ignited' is guaranteed to inspire the soul of any and all blues fans to the rare heights of blues ecstasy. The reason for this is that Rotundo puts everything he has into each and every note he plays and sings - CHARISMA - that's it in a nutshell! This guy exudes it on its highest, most pleasurable level. This rare quality Rotundo possesses, combined with his honestly pleasing and friendly demeanor with everyone he meets, endears the man and his music to the souls and memories of all who are lucky enough to cross his path! This is true also, in regards to the rest of David's brilliantly talented band -- from Julian Fauth on keyboards and background vocals, to blues super-star/special guest guitarist/friend Enrico Crivellaro; right down to the down 'n dirty bass playing of Shane Scott, the in-the-pocket percussion perfection of drummer Greg Cooper, added to by the blues depth and great taste in blues, of guitarist Pete Schmidt.
Rotundo and his band can take you to the depths of forlorn blues 'hell' with "Worries & Troubles", 'drinkin' whiskey and smokin' old cigarettes' -- to the heights of happy blues heaven with "Drinking Overtime", "Ball & Chain", and "Wiggle a Little Boogie". David asks, "sometimes I wonder why's the world so cruel? -- I don't lie, steal or murder, break the golden rule" - Crivellaro's guitar leads seemingly cry in the muddle of this very puzzling question to mankind's dilemma, with no answer musically or otherwise, in sight. The exciting anticipation of waiting for something musically great from Rotundo, is felt strongly in the musical atmosphere of the intro to "Wiggle .. ". Tunes like this help me realize that "yes - there is a heaven right here on earth", (and it's in Rotundo's CD)!
Scott's emphatic upright bass lines, are some of the best around - garnered from a fine ear, good taste in blues influences, and a deep respect for bass icons like the immortal and unforgettable Willie Dixon - thus transforming Scott into one too! The wild guitar solos here by Crivellaro and Schmidt echo the finest and most imaginative blues creations around! Fauth's piano riffs really do 'wiggle down the ivories' as only a blues muse like Julian can muster up out of that pure and talented blues soul of his. "Let's Have a Good Time", adds some funk rhythm to the proceedings; but in true Rotundo fashion, stays pure to the blues in its interpretation. It's truly a good-times tune, helped along by Enrico's upbeat guitar riffs, and Scott's bouncin' bass lines. Cooper's bass drumming, adds reliability to the rhythm. Lyrics like "let's have a good time, before it's too late", sums up the urgency to enjoy life. Rotundo's harp playing on "Let's Have !", seemingly guarantee those good times!
"The Sway" really does sway me with Fauth's awesomely incredible piano riffs - there really are no better piano riffs than Julian's - melodic, entrancing, and highly enjoyable to the ear! (It was heart-warming to see him and piano master Johnnie Johnson engrossed in conversation one night at the Silver Dollar in Toronto. Even better when I photographed them together for posterity and fun memories of a special moment in our musical lives!) Crivellaro's guitar riffs scream out their approval, with superb support from Cooper's percussion genius - Greg's cymbals sing, and his bass drum booms its appropriate accompaniment - a real class tune - jazz influenced blues at its best, (where Enrico can feel right at home)! Scott's trademark bass lines lend reassuring support to this already impeccable creation.
Then Rotundo makes me go bluesily 'beserk' with every note and vocal in "Sellout or Starve". With lyrics like "I can't lie - I'd rather die!", "I'd rather stop than sell out - I'd rather die than sell my life", echo the deepest feelings I personally have regarding my own existence on this earthly plane of existence. Scott's back-and-forth bass lines drive me wild, right from the beginning of this frenzied blues creation, to its ever-lovin' end! Fauth contributes ecstatic piano input along with Cooper's drumming insight - this tune has it all in every way! When Rotundo gets on harp in "Sellout !", it gets me to thinking (as I often do), that this guy is a blues prophet! I often tell other blues fans, "If Gabriel had a blues harp instead of a horn, he'd be David Rotundo!"
Rotundo gives us all a breather, slowing it right down with "Lonely Nights". His introspective vocals sum it all up with "the woman I was lovin', is lovin' someone else". The atmosphere exuded here, can take the listener on a lonely walk along an imaginary and much-needed bluesy street, for the soulful solace needed to escape these primordial blues crashes life offers! Fauth's forlorn piano riffs on "Lonely!" cry the bluesy soul of loneliness better than any words or tears could! So do Schmidt's guitar licks, while Cooper's drumming offers a friendly percussive 'ear'.
"Drinking Overtime" is a rousing blues tune, in the spirit of the best club-hoppin', rockin' 'n drinkin' good times around. Lyrics like "I'm goin' down to the Baldwin -- Robert says come right in", are right from David's own personal life - not made up in any way! The 'Robert' referred to in these lyrics, used to own the Baldwin Café in the Kensington Market area of Toronto, and gave Rotundo-the-blues-icon his harpin' start several years ago, performing there. So we all owe it to Robert for engendering the very beginnings of Rotundo's superlative blues genius, and Fauth's wild 'n forlorn blues 'magic' too! Robert is Rotundo's 'blues muse' -- in much the same inspiring way that iconic blues root himself, Robert Johnson is to Rotundo and other blues masters, who've reached those rarified heights of blues excellence in interpretation and performance!
The final incredible tune on this 'Blues Ignited' masterpiece, is entitled "I've Got to Move". It reunites Rotundo with long-time band mates and friends -- Juno Award winning guitarist, Jack de Keyzer (best blues CD, "6 String Lover", 2003), and de Keyzer drummer Tony Ajo - both class acts, and people! de Keyzer's slithery slide on "I've Got to Move" has Mississippi Delta blues written all over it - with slow, mournful harp playing by Rotundo, kept in line admirably by drummer Ajo's mesmerizing talents on the skins. Rotundo tells us "I heard from Robert Johnson - Howlin' Wolf too, that girl don't love you" - "I've gotta move outta my neighbourhood!" If that ain't de blues, then what is? More incredible slide and leads from de Keyzer, givin' it all he's got (and that's a lot), along with Rotundo's inspiring and revitalizing harp playing, is some of the finest blues you'll ever want to hear! Scott's upright bass lines (slapping quarter notes in true Willie Dixon fashion) on "I've Got !", provide special meaning, right where the bluesy soul needs it most! I'm sure Dixon would enjoy Scott's interpretation! Scott also produced and recorded this blues masterpiece in his Toronto-based Bassline Studio, (part of Stone Pillar Productions), as he did the Rotundo debut 'Blowin' For Broke' CD in 2001. (Which is also outta this world good!!!)
In my estimation, David Rotundo's new CD, 'Blues Ignited' is one of the finest blues CD's I've ever heard. You can't go wrong with Rotundo - either live, or here, 'almost-live' on this incredible CD. Like the great Rompin' Rocker himself, Ronnie Hawkins has said about David, "He plays the blues the way it's supposed to be played!" -- Can't get any better compliment than that! Gotta believe the Hawk when he says it, 'cause Ronnie don't lie no how - neither does Rotundo's blues - 'dey is de real ting, yes dey is'!!! No pun intended - they are the real blues, the way they're supposed to be played - and sung!!!!! And that ain't no lie, no how!!!!!!! David Rotundo and the Blue Canadians featuring Enrico Crivellaro, ignite my blues soul - I hope they do yours, too!!!!!!
Artist: David Rotundo and the Blue Canadians,
Featuring Enrico Crivellaro
Title: 'Blues Ignited'
Label: Stone Pillar Productions # SPP0005
Website: www.davidrotundo.com
Email: drotundo@axxent.ca
Website: www.peteschmidt.com
(for info regarding this and other Stone Pillar Productions CD's)
Email: peteschmidt@rogers.com
2003
Jack de Keyzer CD Review: 6 String Lover
-- by Joe Curtis -
Guitarist, Jack de Keyzer's incredible new CD, 6 String Lover, is a true joy to listen to, and a testimony to the fact that we have some very fine talent in the local Toronto area. 6 String Lover runs the gamut from up tempo Rock 'n' Roll to slow old Blues, James Brown inspired R&B to Robert Johnson style Roots/Blues from the very beginnings of recorded Blues music. Some might say there's too broad a range of music styles for the CD to be pegged down as one thing or another. Others might ask, "Where's the identity - musically, who is Jack de Keyzer?"
Well!from seeing Jack de Keyzer in concert at many gigs over a long period of time, the musical identity of Jack de Keyzer is a guitarist/singer/songwriter who's got impeccable taste in music, uses this good taste to draw from the best musical influences of every era and style - then with the class A talent which is his as a musician, conveys the diversity of these musical influences to the public with originality, conviction, and superb musicianship. The talent Jack picks to be in his great band are also musicians of the highest calibre, who choose the best influences coming their way to help them grow as musicians, as well as being able to interpret those influences to get the best out of each and every performance they take part in.
The musicians playing on 6 String Lover are a Who's Who of local talent, some of whom have international recognition from other music endeavors they've been involved in over the years. Complimenting Jack on guitar is another guitar virtuoso, Peter Sabourin, better known as Sab, who besides having his own great band, is lead guitarist for Ronnie Hawkins. Alec Fraser, Jack's bassist, is also the owner of Liquid Sound Studio, that recorded this fantastic CD. Alec is chief Engineer and Sound Mixer on the CD, ably assisted by bassist, Shane Scott as Assistant Engineer. Besides being a first-class bassist (upright and electric), Shane is also a knowledgeable Sound Engineer, who owns Bass Line Studio, where Jack's highly emotional harp player, David Rotundo recorded his own rousing, award-nominated CD, Blowin' For Broke, recently, which has had much critical acclaim. Shane is also David's upright bass player in his own band, David Rotundo and the Blue Canadians. (How's that for music connections who help each other out.) B3 master, Michael Fonfara of the Downchild Blues Band (who was in Electric Flag and Lou Reed years ago), goes wild on several tracks on Hammond B3 organ and electric piano. Tony Ajo's energetic drumming is indispensable and right on cue, as is Perry White's rousing sax. Talent like this can make any album a success.
The first cut, Deal Me In, deals the listener into this musical game with a bang - but it's no gamble because the whole CD is a winner from start to finish. Pleasure Is My Business, is the rebel rouser of the bunch. The scorching leads played with wild abandon by Jack, along with Mike's rousing B3 and Perry's equally scorching sax licks, is guaranteed to have any dance floor hoppin', or any musician running for his guitar to play along with it at home. (Air Guitar also works on this one!) If Delta Blues slide is your bag, If You Were My Woman (And I Was Your Man) is made to order. Jack's fantastic slide technique is complimented by his nasal tone vocal styling, altered from his usual clear vocals, to help create the mood of gators 'n' catfish. Michael's keys have a feeling of Sunnyland Slim about them. King Of The Blues has a very B.B. feel to it. Fonfara's B3 imaginatively replaces the fullness of B.B.'s horn section. Jack's lead guitar intricacies are heard to great effect here.
Rock 'Til We Drop, rocks with the best of 'em. Rock 'n' Roll got it's name from this kinda stuff. Sab's superb lead guitar soloing, along with Jack's, is all any guitar aficionado could ask for. Two of the best guitarists, in high gear, jammin' their ever lovin' guts out, backed by Shane's big bad drivin' bass lines. There's almost more raw energy here than can be contained -- guaranteed to bust the most passive listener's soulful bonds loose. Jump Right To It says it all in the title. The best in Up tempo Blues is in this winner, featuring fast, spirited guitar licks by Jack, Mike's B3 and David's harp racing alongside, as well as Tony's drum thing keeping it all in the groove. Funk This, a de Keyzer original, admirably pays tribute to the genre epitomized by it's innovator, the Godfather of Soul, James Brown. Funk it, you'll dig it! Making Love To You, is a slow, romantic ballad, full of good feelings and emotional yearnings.
Engine Trouble offers up the best slow Blues around. Jack's bluesy soul cries forth from it's depths on guitar leads and vocals, backed with equally bluesy sympathy by Sab's rhythm guitar complimenting the musical mixture perfectly. Another "car" song, Drivin' Home rocks up the joint the best it can be with infectious rhythms, rousing guitar leads, and Jack's vocals "drivin' home" this winner all the way. The last tune (unfortunate because we could do with 100 more) is Jack's tribute to the Father of the Blues, Robert Johnson. The very rootsy and early guitar stylings and vocals evocative of Mr. Johnson and his contemporaries are exemplified in this de Keyzer original. This is the only solo cut - just Jack himself, his acoustic guitar and lots of talent and conviction to back him up on it. So well done, with sounds of scratches from an old and often played B.B. King record added for realism, you wouldn't know this title track wasn't done by a black guitarist of the early Blues type, from a hitherto unknown and just discovered "lost" recording.
All the music Jack plays and writes is of the finest taste, imagination and execution. His love of the 6 string instrument known as guitar, and the magic it can create, shows itself best in able hands like his. Lyrics like "my fingers slidin' down her back" on the title track, describes the magical and sensuous nature of guitar music, coming from an instrument with an hour-glass body, and a back (neck) that a hand can slide up and down, tapping into it's musical "erogenous zones", bringing the beauty of the "spiritual muse" to the ears of all the lucky listeners who hear Jack's 6 String Lover sing her praises on his new CD. This is also true anytime we're lucky enough to be witnessing live, the genius that is Jack de Keyzer and his very special band.
Artist: Jack de Keyzer
CD: 6 String Lover
Label: Blue Star # CD 2503
www.jackdekeyzer.com (to order CD's)