The Blues Report

Gary Clark Jr. Electrifies "When My Train Comes In" For Dave Matthews Band's Chicago Caravan

noreply@blogger.com (BUN007) — Sat, 28 Jan 2012 02:28:00 +0000

We have new video from the amazing Gary Clark Jr., once again great footage from his fantastic set at Dave Matthews Band's Chicago Caravan stop.

"When My Train Pulls In" can be found in solo acoustic form on Clark's Bright Lights EP. This version features Clark and his touring band and it is electric in every sense of the word. It's a great song and works in the ruminative, singer/songwriter treatment its given on the EP but this scorching six-plus minute performance boasts a blazing guitar solo to close the song. He's such a creative, fiery player. There are lots of guys with flash and tecnique and plenty with style, and Clark stands above a great many of them. He actually plays two solos in this performance and they're very different from one another, demonstrating that creativity and versatility. The first is restrained, proving he doesn't have to shred to burn; the second solo is a soaring excursion bolstered by strong playing by his backing band.

Continue Article And View Video Here...

International Blues Challenge- Past Winners

noreply@blogger.com (BUN007) — Sat, 28 Jan 2012 02:24:00 +0000

What’s up my fellow Blues lovers! With the 2012 International Blues Challenge (IBC) soon approaching I wanted to post a few photos of some past IBC winners. The IBC will be held January 31 – February 4, 2012 in Memphis, TN. The IBC is a pretty big deal for those artists that are competing and an even bigger deal for those that win. The IBC has proven to be a great launching pad for many artists. Please visit the link below for more info.

Continue Article To View Photo's Here... http://www.ameriblues.com/2012/01/27/international-blues-challenge-past-winners/

Featured CD Spotlight - The Jimmys "gimme The Jimmys"

noreply@blogger.com (BUN007) — Fri, 27 Jan 2012 17:45:00 +0000

Raw Chicago Blues to second line New Orleans funk, this album "Covers it all!"

The album features all original tunes performed by the band, with help from world renowned guests including Dan Baird of The Georgia Satellites, Bun E. Carlos of Cheap Trick, Kyle Henderson of The Producers, Warner Hodges of Jason & The Scorchers, Richard Wiegel of The Midwesterners, and Chicago's own 2010 Grammy-winning guitarist Billy Flynn.

About The Jimmys

In 2009, Jimmy Voegeli, the Wisconsin Area Music Industry (WAMI) 2011 Keyboardist of the Year, put together a "Who's Who" of monster musicians to tour and perform his original music. Naturally, he named the band The Jimmys!

The Jimmys headlined the Byron Crossroads Blues Festival this past weekend and happened to open for Bryan Lee. The legendary blues artist, nicknamed "Braille Blues Daddy", was originally born in Two Rivers, Wisconsin, but became a blues singer/guitarists a Bourbon Street fixture in New Orleans, Louisiana since the 1980's.

Bryan Lee was so moved by our performance that he generously offerred to write an introduction for our new album. While we didn't have enough space to include his entire text, but we are honored to be able to post his inspired introduction here in its entirety:

Hello Ladies and Gentlemen,

Are you ready for some new music? Yes, I know some of it is old music, but it is done up in a wonderful way. The horn section is killer. Many times when you hear a band with a good horn section, the rhythm section sucks. Not this rhythm section. This rhythm section has heart and soul. The heart comes from the drummer, who was born in Brazil. Mauro has the beat, no doubt about it.

The soul of the band is our man on the keys, Jimmy, who by the way, got an "F" in his high school band class. Perhaps that "F" was for "Funky". He does most of the singing and the arranging. This band is his dream. And guess what....it would be my dream, too. When you can get as many nice people and absolute great players together? That IS a dream.

The guitar and bass players, they lay it down, they got the grease. Where there is a swing, shuffle, funk, rock, mambo or ballad groove. This is a great rhythm section!

Then you take these three horn players, trumpet, alto sax, and tenor/baritone sax, and let me say, I have always been weary about trumpet players, weather or not they can hold up the high end on the section parts. Well, guess what... these three gentlemen play as one voice. Each one of them also has solo power. They way they play on the ballads is just beautiful.

Now, you would think that I am done, but I'm not. They got some magic spice. And that is the harmonica. And as I like to say baby, he's a "goodin!"

Groups like this come along and they want to be 'Tower of Power' or they want to be 'Chicago'.Well, guess what kids, they ain't 'Tower of Power',and they ain't 'Chicago'. They are just a GREAT band that plays blues and all kinds of other stuff, and you know I'm a stone soul bluesman. But I would take them into the studio and record with them anytime. So get ready for The Jimmy's!

Bryan Lee

Listen To Samples Here...

Additional Artist Info... http://www.thejimmys.net/

Tech Pan Alley – The Gibson Les Paul’s Magical Tone

noreply@blogger.com (BUN007) — Fri, 27 Jan 2012 16:15:00 +0000

Welcome to the new American Blues Scene gear column — a bi-weekly article with a unique “london-style” perspective discussing the guitar gear that make the Blues materialize into sound waves, massaging listener’s ears and, sometimes, even giving them goose bumps — or in the words of Blues Master B. B. King, “the cold sweats”.

This is the first article of a series that will follow the whole electric guitar signal from beginning to end.

There is mixed opinions as to where the actual signal starts. Some believe it is in the player’s brain and/or fingertips. Surely dissertations have been written on this subject, but to avoid complication, we will start on the guitar. Obviously we cannot cover all guitars that have gone through blues. Rather, we will start from the early 50’s which is when the electric guitar gave blues music a massive boost. We have picked 5 of the most famous guitars that Blues Legends have used in the past, sounds of which can be found in virtually all of our favourite blues albums.

We will start with the Gibson Les Paul.

Continue Article Here... http://www.americanbluesscene.com/2012/01/tech-pan-alley-the-gibson-les-pauls-magical-tone/

Featured Blues CD Review - Tim Bastmeyer "Tim Bastmeyer"

noreply@blogger.com (BUN007) — Fri, 27 Jan 2012 02:53:00 +0000

Fans of Tim Bastmeyer got yet another treat last fall with the release of the follow-up to his critically acclaimed 2010 album "Graveyard", with a new self-titled release. Of "Graveyard", I wrote, "Lyrically and Instrumentally refreshing is perhaps the best way I can describe Tim Bastmeyer's new release, "Graveyard"". Had his new self-titled release been my first introduction to Tim Bastmeyer, I probably would have said the same about it, as certainly felt that way.

Tim Bastmeyer is yet another one of those great Canadian musical treasures, who has been plying his trade for many years. Tim is a magnificently accomplished guitarist, as well as, a Singer, Songwriter, Producer, Engineer, Mixer, of which all of those talents were again used on this album, and if that was not enough, he is also a Music Teacher. His new self-titled album is his 3rd to date, but he has also produced many others projects for fellow musicians, both in Music and Film.

When it comes to "Acoustic Blues Guitar technique, nothing less than pure authenticity will do for Bastmeyer' as he brings various styles of Blues to the forefront with unique use of finger picking, flat picking, and multiple tunings."

Tim's new album consists of 11 Tracks, 10 originals and 1 cover of Don Nix's "I'm Going Down". "Don Nix was instrumental in the creation of the trademark "Memphis soul" and Stax Records." In addition to Tim Bastmeyer, he is accompanied by James Thomson (Bass) and Corey Richardson (Drums), both of which played with Tim to form the trio on "Graveyard". Bringing yet an extra dynamic to his self-titled release, we also have the addition of Juno award winning Blues artist Julian Fauth, playing Piano.

When it comes to Tim Bastmeyer's music and the delivery there of, it comes across in a no nonsense clean and simple style, reminding me a little of the style of Leonard Cohen. It is just pure natural music and lyrics; clear, concise, and to the point, with no fancy hot dogging involved. His lyrics tell us a story, and we don't have to strain, or interpret what he is saying, the message is clear.

Tim Bastmeyer presents himself in a more toned down version from "Graveyard", but in doing so was no less enjoyable to listen to. Having the extra added treat of Julian Faith, also gave the album a whole new dynamic, which cut across the blues just a little, exposing a hint of Jazz, something that usually happens when you bring a great Pianist into the equation.

I found the music on this album to cover a lot of territory, but it was territory that we were all familiar with and could easily draw a connection with. Songs like the opening Track "Window Shopping", which deals with ones love of a good woman and all the things he going to buy her, like a diamond ring and a big house. Additional Tracks we can all relate to were the ones with Blues in their titles, namely, Cancer Blues, Flu Blues, and Traffic Blues. Having Danced with the Devil myself 8 years ago, and having lost some dear friends since, Cancer Blues really hit home. Traffic Blues was one of my favorites of the Blues trio with fantastic guitar picking and absolutely great drum work with the use of the brush.

Track 7 "Get Up" was the only instrumental on this album and was a great Track for showing off the talent of all the performers, especially Julian Fauth's Piano styling, which he also creatively showed us on Track 5, the cover of "Going Down". On that Track Julian tickles the ivories for the first 3rd of the song and reminded me a bit of the kind of music you may of listened to at a silent movie when something started to get suspenseful. After that the rest of the band kicks into gear and the song takes off.

With this album and his previous one "Graveyard", Tim Bastmeyer has truly caught my ear and my attention. His style is truly his own, in all regards, making his music compellingly hypnotic in nature, and because of that, I have i n addition to Bill Johnson and Suzie Vinnick, added Tim Bastmeyer to my list of great Canadian Singers, Songwriters, & Musicians.

A unique and intriguing Album, one that I have no problem recommending.

Review by John Vermilyea (Blues Underground Network)

Listen To Samples Here...

Artist Website... http://timbastmeyer.com/

An Interview with Guitarist & Harpman Richard Ray Farrell: I've heard guys call the blues the "truth."

noreply@blogger.com (BUN007) — Fri, 27 Jan 2012 01:22:00 +0000

Born in Niagara Falls, New York in 1956, Richard Ray left his hometown only two weeks after graduating from high school and backpacked his way through Europe, not knowing at the time that music would be his destiny. Richard Ray started as a street musician or “busker” in Paris, France in 1975. Totally fascinated with the music of Muddy Waters, Robert Johnson and other legendary blues players, Richard played for hours on end in the halls and tunnels of the Parisian “Metro” subway, scraping out a living as a musician, literally a "po' boy long way from home.”

In 1978, Richard got an offer to front a blues-rock band in Spain. These were hard times for Richard. He was making even less money than when he was playing on the street and sometimes was "down to his last shirt and pair of jeans." All this time, Richard had been living as a "tourist" and was unable to take a normal job, having no official working papers.

Richard lived the life of a true gypsy for years, and actually did live with a Gypsy family for six months in Spain in the late 1970's. In 1987, Richard opened for Joe Cocker at the Backnang Open Air Festival. He was still playing on the streets, as the blues band just didn't make enough money to live on. But things were starting to pick up.

Richard formed his first trio, the Richard Ray Farrell Band, in 1989. Living in Germany and gradually making a name for himself, Richard started touring in Italy, Switzerland, France, Holland and Belgium with a former sideman to R.L. Burnside, Jon Morris Nerenberg. It was through Jon that Richard started meeting older bluesmen from the American south and accompanying them on tours throughout Europe. Tours with Lazy Lester, Big Jack Johnson, Big Boy Henry, Louisiana Red, Frank Frost and R.L. Burnside followed. In 1992, Richard drew the attention of German record producer Alf List. Richard put out his first CD produced by List, Live in Germany later that year.

In 1993, Richard and Jon formed the band "Street Talk". Richard got a phone call from Jimmy Carl Black, legendary drummer with Frank Zappa's Mothers of Invention. Jimmy had recently moved to the area and was looking for a blues guitarist to form a band. Richard and Jimmy appreciated each other's talents immediately, and soon formed the FARRELL & BLACK band. The group proved to be very successful and went on to record two CD's, Cataract Jump in 1996 and Black Limousine in 1999. Richard also put out an impressive solo acoustic CD in 1998 entitled Street Songs, Jazzy Tunes & Down Home Blues.

In an extreme turn of events, Richard Ray decided to move back to the United States in 2001 and relocate to the Philadelphia area. In 2003 he recorded his first CD, Bohemian Life. It was recorded with the help of an all-star lineup of musicians, including a guest appearance by harmonica virtuoso Jerry Portnoy. In June 2005 Richard Ray released a second CD, Acoustic Roots. This CD features classic ragtime and delta blues covers from the 20’s and 30’s. In October 2006 Richard, together with Steve Guyger, released Down Home Old School Country Blues. Richard Ray can be found playing with his band, solo, or with well known musicians living the tri-state area, including Steve Guyger and Steve Gomes. His discography inclusive the albums: Stuck on the Blues (2007), Camino de Sanlucar (2009), and the new I Sing The Blues Eclectic (2011)

Continue To Interview Here... http://blues.gr/profiles/blogs/an-interview-with-guitarist-harpman-richard-ray-farrell-i-ve

Natchel Blues Network send Seth Stainback and The Bush League Off to Memphis in Style

noreply@blogger.com (BUN007) — Thu, 26 Jan 2012 04:19:00 +0000

The good folks at the Natchel Blues Network put together quite an event as a final fundraiser to assist two blues acts, Roosterfoot (Seth Stainback and Keith Stainback) and The Bush League, with the expenses of their trip to the International Blues Challenge (IBC) that is being held in Memphis, TN from Jan 31 to Feb 4, 2012. For those of you who may be unaware, the IBC is an international competition where all of the Blues Foundation affiliates are encouraged to stage a regional preliminary IBC competition, with the winner of that competition representing the organization in the Memphis international competition. I have never been there, but I hear that it is one of those mountaintop experiences for any blues music lover and based on what I heard and experienced at Mojo Bones on this day, I can only imagine what a whole week of this kind of talented musicianship and the blues can do to a person’s soul.

The day started with a nice 2 hour drive through the countryside, to get from Colonial Heights, VA to the Ocean View area of Norfolk, VA with my daughter and son-in-law taking the two front seat positions and my wife and I riding as passengers. I am not really to used to being a passenger, but I would have to say it wasn’t too bad. I just wish I could sleep in a moving vehicle, but maybe that’s why I drive most of the time. We arrived at Mojo Bones and stepped in just prior to Seth hitting the stage. The word had definitely gotten out about this event as the place was packed but I was able to immediately recognize some faces that I have gotten to know recently. Seth and Bobby Blackhat Walters walked over to greet me and I saw and spoke to folks affiliated with the Natchel Blues Network along with many other newly acquired friends and acquaintances. The anticipation and excitement of this day was beginning to build.

Roosterfoot

Roosterfoot hits the stage and, to my surprise, they have added Larry Berwald on the electric guitar and man is that a nice fill-in. I have only recently seen Larry play as a part of Bobby Blackhat Walter’s band and was really pleasantly surprised to see him playing with Roosterfoot. Seth comes at you with some blazing acoustic slide playing and raw, down to earth vocals that he seems to summon from deep down in his being. Especially at the end of songs like “Love You Down”, where he pleads and pours his heart out to the one who has left him brokenhearted, to come back home. This is the blues folks, as real and raw as it gets and Larry fills in the missing gaps with some nice guitar work. Seth brouht Bobby Blackhat Walters, who is also making the trip to Memphis representing the River City Blues Society out of Richmond, up on the stage for a couple of tunes and closed out by inviting a local harp player, Art Kohn of WAVY TV in Hampton Roads, for a couple more songs. This was a very upbeat set and hopefully gives Seth and company a little extra boost at the IBC in Memphis.

As Roosterfoot was playing, I began to notice all the folks showing up with guitars and other instruments in hand. First was Anthony Rosano, who was so impressive on his cigar box guitar at the last jam and not far behind him members of The Bush League started showing up. I knew that they were driving in from Lynchburg and it was good to see Royce, Shane and Kenya, who seemed a little nervous while waiting on John Jay Cecil to make it in time for their set. In addition to those fine folks, a couple other oddities caught my eye. The first was a small, young girl along with what looked to be her mother, they were carrying a bass guitar case. The other being a young fellow with wispy blonde hair falling from underneath a Fedora hat. I made a mindful note and went back to enjoying the last bit of the Roosterfoot set.

Continue Article Here... http://www.americanbluesscene.com/2012/01/natchel-blues-network-send-seth-stainback-and-the-bush-league-off-to-memphis-in-style/

January 25 Show: Memorials

noreply@blogger.com (BUN007) — Thu, 26 Jan 2012 04:16:00 +0000

Tonight on the show I'll be playing songs from some of the blues artists who passed on over the last year who have been especially important in my experience of listening to the blues, including Pinetop Perkins, Willie "Big Eyes" Smith, Doyle Bramhall, Hubert Sumlin, and Etta James.

View The Show Here... http://bluesdjben.blogspot.com/2012/01/january-25-show-memorials.html

Reverend Raven & the Chain Smokin' Altar Boys -- Shake Your Boogie

noreply@blogger.com (BUN007) — Thu, 26 Jan 2012 04:14:00 +0000

The first time I heard this disc it blew me away--an almost perfect slice of party blues, similar in feel to those great cds by The Bel Airs or Omar & the Howlers. These guys can all play great, and they've been playing together forever. Well, since 1966, anyway. "Shake Your Boogie" is their fourth release dating back to 1998--I recommend all of them. This time out they do exactly what they've done on all those previous discs, and what they do every night on the upper mid-western blues circuit--they play that good time blues music, lifting spirits and kickin' ass.

The band is Reverend Raven on guitar and vocals, P T Pedersen on bass, Bobby Lee Sellers Jr on drums and vocals, Danny Moore on piano/organ, and sometimes the great Big Al Groth on sax. Madison Slim provides harp and vocals on four tracks, where an alternative rhythm section of Andre Maritato on bass and Spencer Panosh on drums sit in and the sax is absent. Piano and organ are provided by either Mickey Larson or Danny Moore on most tracks. Reverend Raven wrote three of the songs, and PT Pedersen wrote one song, the sole instrumental here. Gerry Hundt, former member of Nick Moss’ Fliptops is the author of two tracks. The covers this time out come from Hound Dog Taylor, Slim Harpo, Little Milton, St Louis Jimmy Oden, Robert Nighthawk and Sonny Boy Williamson. The album was recorded live on stage in Milwaukee, but from the absence of any crowd noise I assume that it was ‘live’ without an audience. Too bad. It would have been a lot of fun to watch these songs come to life in the hands of this great band.

Continue Review Here... http://sundaynightbluesproject.blogspot.com/2012/01/reverend-raven-chain-smokin-altar-boys.html

Brandon Isaak and Keith Picot - EPK

noreply@blogger.com (BUN007) — Wed, 25 Jan 2012 19:19:00 +0000

What Is Your Blues Name?

noreply@blogger.com (BUN007) — Wed, 25 Jan 2012 17:52:00 +0000

Courtesy Of The Huffington Post... http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2012/01/24/whats-your-blues-name-pciture_n_1229406.html

Everyone loves a nickname. Whether they'll admit it or not, it's nice to have a special term of endearment that's reserved for just you. But what if no one has taken the time to give you the creative moniker you know you deserve?

Then it's time to take matters into your own hands.

After all, Donald Glover got his rapper alter-ego (Childish Gambino) from a Wu-Tang name generator, so who's to say you can't do the same.

Featured Blues CD Review - Brian Lee & The Orbiters "Identity Theft"

noreply@blogger.com (BUN007) — Wed, 25 Jan 2012 17:03:00 +0000

Brian Lee & The Orbiters are a blues band based out of Seattle, Washington and have been making quite a name for themselves with each new release, with their newest, "Identity Theft" being their 3rd album, of which it is the first since changing their name from The Blues Orbiters to simply, The Orbiters. Formed in 1999, Brian Lee & The Orbiters have become one of Washington's Blues gems, receiving numerous accolades, such as, "Best of the Blues" nominations by the Washington Blues Society. For 2011, Brian has been nominated for "Best Slide Guitar". In 2010, Brian was nominated for "Best Male Vocalist", and the band was nominated for "Best Blues Act", and "Best Traditional Blues Act". The Orbiters were also nominated for "Best Band" in 2008 and 2003, as well as for "Best Recording" in 2006." Brian Lee & The Orbiters consist of 4 members which include Brian Lee (Vocals/Guitar/Blues Harp), Steve Yonck (Guitar), Russ Kammerer (Drums), and Hank Yanda (Bass). 3 of the 4 members also play a scaled backed version of their band, which they call The Brian Lee Trio, and consists of Brian, Russ, and Hank.

"Identity Theft" consists of 11 Tracks, of which all were written by Brain Lee. Brian also showed off even more of his talents via Producer/Engineer/Art Design and some Photography, as well. In addition to the regular band lineup, also joining them on this album, on various Track were Conrad Ormsby (Drums), Tim Sherman (Guitars), and Guy Quintino (Upright Bass).

When I first started listening to "Identity Theft" I was really impressed with the smoothness that seemed to emanate from Brian Lee & The Orbiters music. There wasn't anything overly fancy about it, their a unique band and that is how they sound, with no one drowning out any of the other members, trying to show off. I also felt like they would be the perfect band to see live, especially in a smaller venue, where you could get up and dance, because their music sure gets your feet a feeling for the dance floor.

"Identity Theft" starts off with a great dose of Harp, Vocals, and Guitar with “Fine Line”. Done in a Swing style, it was just the perfect opener for this album. The next Track "So Lucky", slows it down a bit and in doing so lets Guitarist Steve Yonck, really shine. Also loved the Bass beat on this one. Track 3 "Identity Theft" starts off a little mysteriously and is really about our loss of identity. "Life Today Is So Hard, I'm Just A Face On A Plastic Card". Track 5 "Anything It Takes", again shows us the simplicity that is Brian Lee & The Orbiters, and yet at the same time it shows us how wonderfully sounding and refreshing, simplicity can be. Track 8 "Fourth And Miles", is the one instrumental on "Identity Theft". It comes off brilliantly with great Harmonica and Lead Guitar throughout, courtesy of Brian Lee. It's has a little tinge of a Jazz feel to it also, which I really liked. Another Track that had that little Jazzy feel, was the next Track "Sideways". Wonderfully seductive Harmonica playing by Brian, of the sort I really like, but just don't get enough of on a lot of Blues albums out there nowadays. The last Track "Blast Off" certainly lives up to it's name. This one is a nice tune with a great Swinging/Jump feel to it. Loved that Bass via Hank Yanda.

For me, "Identity Theft" was really a refreshing break from a few to many Blues/Rock head bangers. Brian Lee & The Orbiters get their message across by showing us great lyrics, wonderfully sang and wonderfully accompanied with the band and their instrumental prowess. Everyone in the band shone on each song as this group showed us how really fine musicians sound when they are playing as a team.

Brian Lee & The Orbiters, are yet another mighty fine Band, with "Identity Theft", being a mighty fine album.

Review by John Vermilyea (Blues Underground Network)

Listen To Samples Here...

Additional Artist Info... http://www.brianleeorbiters.com/home.cfm

Rumshack 60 – A Burns Night Hoolie

noreply@blogger.com (BUN007) — Wed, 25 Jan 2012 16:12:00 +0000

A Burns Night Hoolie podcast from the Rumshack, featuring new tracks from Bex Marshall, Cherry Lee Mewis and Babajack. In the middle a new recording of a Robbie Burns poem, MacPherson’s Lament from Dave Arcari. Plus some of the best new releases and new discoveries from my trawling around the web. As ever bringin you all shades of blues from all around the world.

View Playlist And Listen To Show Here... http://therumshack.com/?p=229

01/23/12 "Little" Joe McLerran Sat On The Couch

noreply@blogger.com (BUN007) — Wed, 25 Jan 2012 02:41:00 +0000

In 2009 Little Joe McLerran came to Memphis for the IBC for the fourth time and this time he walked away with the top spot!

From the time he was a mere lad, Joe knew music was going to be his career. he and his brother would busk at the local mall and come home with pocket-loads of money.

How did the IBC change his career path and how is his career moving along at this time? Joe explains.

Joe also gives some sage advice to those who are coming to Memphis this year or in the future and we also get some great music from Joe.

Listen To Show Here... http://www.musiconthecouch.com/2012/01/012312-little-joe-mclerran-sat-on-couch.html

01/23/12 Grady Champion Sat On The Couch

noreply@blogger.com (BUN007) — Wed, 25 Jan 2012 02:40:00 +0000

Grady Champion and his band won the 2010 Band Challenge at the IBC.

Growing up on a farm outside Canton, MS, Grady was exposed to the sounds of church choirs and the music from his family.

His musical career began as a rapper and evolved into the blues star he is today.
Grady discussed how his musical career changed, the thrill of playing in front of 1 person or 10,000 people and playing with his son.

He also discussed his thoughts on the International Blues Challenge and the benefits it has afforded him.

You may be surprised at Grady's answer to my question "If you had not won the IBC, would your career be the same?"

Listen Here... http://www.musiconthecouch.com/2012/01/012312-grady-champion-sat-on-couch.html

01/31/12 - 02/04/12 - International Blues Challenge Live Broadcasts

noreply@blogger.com (BUN007) — Wed, 25 Jan 2012 02:38:00 +0000

SHOW #1
Tuesday, January 31, 2012
Broadcasting from the 2nd Floor Banquet Room at the Rum Boogie Cafe
9:00pm - Midnight
CLICK FOR SHOW

SHOW #2
Wednesday, February 1, 2012
Broadcasting from the 2nd Floor Banquet Room at the Rum Boogie Cafe
3:00pm - 6:00pm
CLICK HERE FOR SHOW

SHOW #3
Wednesday, February 1, 2012
Broadcasting from the 2nd Floor Banquet Room at the Rum Boogie Cafe
9:00pm - Midnight
CLICK HERE FOR SHOW

SHOW #4
Thursday, February 2, 2012
Broadcasting from the 2nd Floor Banquet Room at the Rum Boogie Cafe
3:00pm - 6:00pm
CLICK HERE FOR SHOW

SHOW #5
Thursday, February 2, 2012
Broadcasting from the 2nd Floor Banquet Room at the Rum Boogie Cafe
9:00pm - Midnight
CLICK HERE FOR SHOW

SHOW #6
Friday, February 3, 2012
Broadcasting from the 2nd Floor Banquet Room at the Rum Boogie Cafe
3:00pm - 6:00pm
CLICK HERE FOR SHOW

SHOW #7
Friday, February 3, 2012
Broadcasting from the 2nd Floor Banquet Room at the Rum Boogie Cafe
9:00pm - Midnight
CLICK HERE FOR SHOW

SHOW #8
Saturday, February 4, 2012
Broadcasting from the Mezzanine Hallway of the Orpheum Theater
3:00pm - 6:00pm
CLICK HERE FOR SHOW

SHOW #9
Saturday, February 4, 2012
Broadcasting from the Mezzanine Hallway of the Orpheum Theater
9:00pm - Midnight
CLICK HERE FOR SHOW

Etta James’ The Dreamer, CD Review

noreply@blogger.com (BUN007) — Wed, 25 Jan 2012 02:34:00 +0000

The world was recently saddened by the loss of a true music legend, Etta James. The singer’s last few years may have been marked with illness and controversial verbal outbursts, but her talent and artistry have insured that she will forever be remembered for her influential contributions to popular music.

In late 2011 she announced her retirement and gave her fans one last gift, her final studio release THE DREAMER; a slickly produced work that gives listeners one last chance to hear the accomplished vocalist lend her signature sound (a custom blend of soul, blues, R&B, rock and country) to a collection of decade-spanning cover tracks.

Many critics have found THE DREAMER to be a flawed yet worthwhile installment into James’ catalog and this reviewer finds no reason to object to that assessment. The wear of age and illness have given the recording’s vocal performance a slight air of fatigue and its song selection, though is hitting the mark in most cases, is almost unanimously thought of as missing it in others.

Continue Review Here... http://www.ameriblues.com/2012/01/24/etta-james-the-dreamer-cd-review/

Former B. B. King bassist Melvin Lee Green Passes in Memphis

noreply@blogger.com (BUN007) — Wed, 25 Jan 2012 02:31:00 +0000

(Memphis, Tennessee) It is with great sadness that we report the passing of a very dear friend and colleague, indubitably one of the world’s finest Blues musicians. Melvin Lee Green, brother of the famous Dr. Herman Green, has succumbed to heart disease. Melvin Lee was one of the kindest and friendliest men to walk to his planet and his classic Blues bass playing was known throughout the world.

B.B. King, Herman Green, Melvin Lee Green perform at at early Handy Awards

I received this late yesterday from I 55 artist, engineer, songwriter and guitarist, Brad Webb:

Continue Article With Photo's Here... http://www.ameriblues.com/2012/01/24/former-b-b-king-bassist-melvin-lee-green-passes-in-memphis/

Weekly Blues Music Report: Gary Clark, Jr. Upsets!

noreply@blogger.com (BUN007) — Wed, 25 Jan 2012 02:23:00 +0000

Now this was totally unexpected: after weeks of stealthy forward momentum, the Billboard magazine blues chart for the week ending January 28, 2012 shows that Texas blues guitarist Gary Clark, Jr. has unseated long-time champ Hugh Laurie from the number one spot. While I've had readers recommend Laurie's Let Them Talk album, it still smells to me like a dilettantish effort to ward off the boredom of a hit TV show and seven-figure paycheck. Clark, on the other hand, is the real deal, certified bluesy by Eric Clapton (for what that's worth) and following in the hallowed footsteps of Stevie Ray Vaughan. Clark's The Bright Lights EP is a fine collection of songs that will whet the listener's appetite for a full-length LP, hopefully in the near future.

Strangely enough, Clark's move to numero uno gives Warner Brothers Records the top three spots, again, misleading one to believe that the label is interested in blues music. There are a few other surprises on this week's chart as well, as Carolyn Wonderland's wonderful Peace Meal squeezes into the Top Ten, Gregg Allman's Low Country Blues returns to the charts again a year after its first appearance, and the great Etta James' final album, The Dreamer, seems to (finally) be gaining some traction, knocking the singer's long-charting Icon collection back a couple of spots. Joe Bonamassa's Dust Bowl dropped to #12 while the Beth Hart/Bonamassa collaboration, Don't Explain, dropped to #11 after a successful run.

This week's Top Ten blues albums, ranked by sales, here... http://blues.about.com/b/2012/01/24/weekly-blues-music-report-gary-clark-jr-upsets.htm

A Monday Blues CD Review - The Blues "An Evolution"

noreply@blogger.com (BUN007) — Tue, 24 Jan 2012 00:24:00 +0000

On December 13, 2011 Chicago-based Electro Glide Records, released their first compilation CD entitled The Blues, "An Evolution", which contains music from 4 of their 5 signed artists, which included, Big Dog Mercer, Danny Baron, Brandon Santini and Tom Holland.

"Big Dog Mercer caught the blues from watching the movie, The Blues Brothers. His sound combines rock, a little bit of country and a Big Dog bite of Chicago blues."

For Memphis Vocalist and Harmonica player Brandon Santini, this compilation is actually his solo debut. "For seven years, Brandon fronted the Blues Music Award nominated band Delta Highway and has toured relentlessly throughout North America and Overseas ."

"Danny Baron has worked with long time Chicago radio hosts, Danny Bonaduce, Kevin Matthews and Steve Dahl. He also has opened for blues greats Lonnie Brooks, Bernard Allison, and rock icon Leon Russell. Danny also worked with former Beach Boy and rock legend, Brian Wilson during his first solo tour ."

Guitarist/Vocalist Tom Holland has probably the biggest resume, compared to the other artists on The Blues "An Evolution". "Tom has worked with a who’s who of blues greats, including: Byther Smith, Eddy Clearwater, John Primer and L.V. Banks. For the past eight years Holland has been James Cotton’s guitarist and his musical director ."

The Blues "An Evolution" consists of 12 Tracks with each of the above mentioned artists contributing 3 Tracks. In the Liner Notes, the President of Electro Glide Records stated that "If I have to label the music on this CD, I would have to call it "Americana". Or if you like, just call it messing with the Blues." With such a statement, I proceeded to listen to this album and see what I could pull from it, but first I wanted to mention a bit about the Tracklist on The Blues "An Evolution". When I first looked at the Tracklist, I thought nothing of it, but after listening to the album and then looking back at the Tracklist again, it dawned on me that something was not right and that was the way the songs were presented, via 1 artist/3 songs, then the next artist had his turn. To me that is not a compilation album, that is a sampler album. In my opinion, The Blues "An Evolution", should of shuffled up the artists, with having each artist not having 2 Tracks in a row. I think that would have been an extra ingredient that would of pumped up this album to yet another level.

The Blues "An Evolution" first 3 Tracks were by Big Dog Mercer, with the first one being "Some Other Fool". "Some Other Fool" starts off with a very distinctive Grand Funk Railroad Bass Riff, which wonderfully permeates the song throughout. The 2nd Track "Helpless" is a toned down ballad and shows off Mercer's Vocals to perfection. Big Dog Mercer finishes off his set with "Big Dog Blues", showing everyone whom the big boss man is.

Next up was Brandon Santini whom brought 3 nice Tracks to the mix of which my favorite was the Cajun Swamp flavored Track "What Can I Do". Brandon Santini's forte is of course his Harp playing which he showed off brilliantly throughout his 3 Tracks.

Next up was Danny Baron of which he is referred to as Danny And The Devils on this Album. The favorite Track of his 3 was the first one "Don't Come Back This Time", and is loaded for bear with not only great singing, but also great Guitar work. Danny Baron's last of the 3 Tracks "Mama's Boy", shows off some mighty fine Organ work throughout.

Up last is Tom Holland and it is all Chicago style Blues to finish off this album, with my favorite being the slow Track "Keep On Playin'", which they certainly do on this one, as it clocks in at over 7 minutes, the longest Track on the Album. Tom Holland finishes off his set with the only instrumental on The Blues "An Evolution", with the Track "Zeb's Blues", of which one reviewer said, "one might liken to a cross between Elmore James’ “Hawaiian Boogie” and Earl Hooker’s "The Leading Brand"." "Zeb's Blues" was a very good choices of ending to this fine album.

Despite Electro Glide Records obvious miscue of not being a bit more creative with the Track listing, I still found The Blues "An Evolution" not only to be a heck of a good Album, but also a great way to get introduced to some amazing talent.

Review by John Vermilyea (Blues Underground Network)

Additional Info... www.ElectroGlideRecords.com

www.BigDogMercer.com
www.BrandonSantini.com
www.myspace.com/DannyAndTheDevils

www.TomHollandShuffleKings.com

The Roadhouse 361

noreply@blogger.com (BUN007) — Mon, 23 Jan 2012 16:45:00 +0000

This week, we salute the talent of Etta James, through tracks you may not hear elsewhere. But, it’s not all Etta. Little Freddie King, Studebaker John & The Hawks, Joe Louis Walker, Bryce Janey, and Monkeyjunk are out there waiting to compel uncontrollable chair-dancing. It’s an ubeatable combination and an unbeatable foundation for another hour of the finest blues you’ve never heard – the 361st Roadhouse.

Listen Here... http://roadhousepodcast.com/2012/01/21/the-roadhouse-361/

‘Nothing But The Blues’ 18th January 2012 Steve Jessney

noreply@blogger.com (BUN007) — Mon, 23 Jan 2012 16:44:00 +0000

Playlist Includes: BB King, Samantha Fish, Memphis Minnie, Ruby Muse, Tom Principato, Elvin Bishop, Buddy Guy, James Taylor, Champion Jack Dupree, Billy Walton Band.

Listen Here... http://stevejessney.podbean.com/2012/01/22/nothing-but-the-blues-18th-january-2012-steve-jessney/

Bandana Blues with Beardo & Spinner - Show #421

noreply@blogger.com (BUN007) — Sun, 22 Jan 2012 22:40:00 +0000

01.21.12

Johnny Otis - New Orleans Shuffle (The Ultimate Jazz Archive 15 [Disc 4] 1949)
Etta James - The Wallflower (A-K-A Roll with Me Henry R&B Dynamite 1955)
The Rolling Stones - I'm Not Signifying (Exile on Main Street (Remastered) (Deluxe Edition 2010)

Spinner's Section: a little tribute to Etta James, who passed away on Friday January 20, 2012, and Johnny Otis, who passed away on Tuesday January 17, 2012

Etta James: at last (1961) (3:01) (Chess Chartbusters Vol.4, Chess, 2008)
Muddy Waters: I just want to make love to you (4:19) (Electric Mud, …, 1968)
Ball, Barton & Strehli: something's got a hold on me (3:47) (Dreams Come True, Antone's, 1990)
Christine Perfect: I'd rather go blind (3:11) (-, Blue Horizon, 1970)
Johnny Otis: livin' in misery (2:33) (The Johnny Otis Show, Capitol, 1958)
Jackie Wilson: lonely teardrops (1958) (…) (Reet Petite, Ace, 1984)
Esther Phillips: I'm gettin' 'long alright (2:58) (Confessin' The Blues, Atlantic, 1976)
Hank Ballard & the Midnighters: I'll be home someday (3:03) (Singin' & Swingin', King, 1959)
Little Willie John: suffering with the blues (1960) (2:28) (Free At Last, Bellaphon, 1976)
Little Richard with the Johnny Otis Orchestra: I love my baby (1956) (2:29)

Back To Beardo:

The Nighthawks - Long Distance Call (Open All Nite 1976)
Levee Town - I'm Gonna Leave (Pages Of Paperwork 2011)
The Mighty Mojos - Lie To Me (Devil In Disguise 2011)
Joel Dasilva And The Midnight Howl - Hard Time Feat. Albert Castiglia (self titled 2011)
Nico Wayne Toussaint - Livin' On the Highway (Southern Wind Blowin' 2007)
Boo Boo Davis - Hard Times (Blues + Beat 2011)
Wayne Baker Brooks - Your Turn (To Talk To The Blues) (Mystery)
Ian Siegal - Like Hell (Broadside 2009)
Van Morrison with Ben Sidran vocal - No Trouble Livin' (Tell Me Something - Songs Of Mose Allison 1996)
Joe Louis Walker - Hellfire (Hellfire 2012)
Dweezil Zappa - The Torture Never Stops (Zappa Plays Zappa 2008)
Gerry Rafferty - Can I Have My Money Back? (Can I Have My Money Back? LP 1971)

Listen To Show Here... http://beardo1.libsyn.com/show-421-took-forever-

Featured CD Spotlight - The Russ Tippins Electric Band "Electrickery"

noreply@blogger.com (BUN007) — Sun, 22 Jan 2012 17:49:00 +0000

Review Courtesy Of Mark Thompson (Blues Blast Magazine)

The promotional material that accompanied this release touts guitarist Russ Tippins as a popular performer in the North East section of England, due in large part to his well regarded solo acoustic set. For this release, Tippins favors the blues/rock power trio format that was the rage in England during the 1960s when bands like the Jimi Hendrix Experience and Cream ruled the airwaves along with the Who and Led Zeppelin, also power trios that featured a singer as the front man.

Tippins pays respect to the past on the opening track, a straightforward cover of the Hendrix tune “Freedom” with John Dawson contributing a pounding bass line and drummer Ian Halford matching him with a strong beat. Things pick up on the next song, “Little Josephine”, with a potent vocal from the leader over a guitar line that harks back to the Peter Gunn theme. Tippins delivers another stellar vocal on “Comeuppance” that is matched by his furious slide guitar playing. While the pace slows on the ballad “She’s Gone”, the band maintains the intensity level as Tippins alternates blues licks with power chords and some rapid-fire picking.

Tippins injects little twists and variations into each song that hold your interest even when his lyrics fail to match the quality of his arrangements. “Number Thirteen” is one cut where the band’s enthusiasm and soaring voice carry the day.

“This Building’s on Fire” is a high octane rockabilly romp that gives Tippins a chance to demonstrate his dexterity with the guitar, firing off notes so fast that at times your ears will struggle to keep up with what he is playing. Even at the frantic pace, Tippins manages to play creative lines that make this track a highlight.

The rhythm section lays down a nice shuffle beat on “Chuck It” that the leader uses as a springboard for more tasty guitar work as he belts out his tale of the downward spiral of his life. The guitar intro to the title track reaffirms Tippins debt to the Hendrix legacy before the tune shifts to a hard, funky groove that Tippins rides with clean, fluid lines that also echo the Carlos Santana guitar style. “Lawrence” is a stadium rock anthem with Tippins delivering a masterful vocal performance. At times on this track, the band sounds like a hard rocking version of Journey (a comparison meant only in the most positive sense) with Tippins’ voice soaring over the music.

“Indy Boogie” is just that – a hard rockin’ tribute to the band’s experience at a festival in the Indiana city that featured a storm, power outage and plenty of great people. Tippins throws an AC/DC lick into his solo and once again sings with lots of energy. The disc closes with an listed bonus track – a tribute to Led Zeppelin as the band covers “The Lemon Song”. Again, Tippins doesn’t stray to far from the original version but he shows that his impressive vocal range comes close to matching a youthful Robert Plant.

This one is not for the blues purists. Tippins is an outstanding singer and songwriter with a style that is definitely more rock than blues. But if you enjoy some variety in your musical playlist – and especially if you are a member of the original Woodstock generation – Russ Tippins offers a look back to the days when rock music really did rock. This disc held up through repeated listens and is worth checking out.

Listen To Samples Here...

Additional Artist Info Here... http://www.bluesundergroundnetwork.com/The_Russ_Tippins_Electric_Band_CD.html

Black On Blues - Show 50 – British Blues Revisited

noreply@blogger.com (BUN007) — Sun, 22 Jan 2012 17:02:00 +0000

A great mix of British talent this week.

Welcome back folks.

Well it’s the big 5-0 for BlackonBlues this week. Hard to believe that we’ve been at this for almost a year now. So let’s celebrate 50 shows in style. This week we bring you a fantastic line up of British blues talent. First up, Crosscut Saw with a real foot stompin’ lick to start the show off. Next up, The Blue Bishops . Third up , we feature a show favourite, Rambin’ Matt from London. Forth on the set we have the Delta Ladies. Next a fantastic band from Belfast, The Mighty Mojos and last but not least The Maggie Ross Band.

Enjoy the show.

Download Link Here... http://blackonblues.com/archives/350