If something hums, they say it’s full of activity. If true, then this album passes the hum test. At times I hear a little Bonnie Raitt, at times I hear a bit of Judy Collins, and yet at times I hear Joni Mitchell. Continue reading Grainne Duffy, “Where I Belong”
I found some footage of The Stacy Mitchhart Band that I shot this past year. He is such a showman and an awesome guitar player.
Being a history nut, I would love to go back in time to meet, watch, and listen to the great blues artists of the 30’s 40’s and 50’s. But recently, I found a band releasing their debut album, The Long Road Home. Continue reading Rootbone, “The Long Road Home”
It’s hard to imagine anything of value coming from death. With one blues musician, the “King of the Delta,” the events are blurry as he joined the 27 club on August 16, 1938. Continue reading The Mike Eldred Trio,”Baptist Town”
The follow up to Markey Blue’s video review, The Blues Are Knockin. There are blues albums, and then there are blues albums.
Recently, I received material from a recording artist that has his roots in the state of Georgia. Living in Georgia for 28 years, I had to consider this review. Upon reading his bio, then listening to his tracks, I was surprised. Continue reading Nathan Bell, “I Don’t Do This For Love, I Do This For Love”
An added treat backstage with brothers, Scott and Todd Smith, I was able to meet with Bonnie Bramlett of the famed Delaney & Bonnie. Also in the crowd the famous Blue man, Blue Miller. It would be easier to list the artists Blue has not worked with in the music industry. Blue shared with me an artist he recently co- wrote and produced, India Arie’s “Acoustic Soul” album nominated for seven Grammys. Greg Shirley was also part of the Smith & Wesley posse with his Garage Door Records debut release, Raised On The Run. And can’t leave out new artist, Brittany Bexton with her newly released single, “Free Fall.” After spending time chatting with Brittany, I realized this little lady has all the “smarts” with great talent to go along with it. It’s clear, she has her heart, mind, and soul in her music.
Recently I had the pleasure seeing Davina & The Vagabonds perform at the Music City Roots Radio Show.
Influenced by artists Tom Waits, Amy Winehouse, and many others Davina gave the audience a great show. The Vagabonds recently played at the Monterey Jazz Festival, and as I was talking to Davina, the band was packing for an European tour. Their new album, Nicollet & 10th is due out soon.
Got Baptized tonight at the Bourdon Street Blues and Boogie Bar. Two fantastic acts, Ronnie Baker Brooks with special guest Lee Roy Parnell. Baker and his band were spot on amazing. Loved the horns and sax. Never seen someone play two saxophones at the same time. Ronnie Baker was sublime on guitar, Lee Roy was an added treat, and the keyboard player was off the chart on one piece.
Second act was just as amazing, Crystal Shawanda, Native American blues artist. Covering “I’d R…ather Go Blind” was one of my favorites. Toward the end of her set, she dived into “Piece of My Heart.” She had me hook, line, and sinker. Crystal had a special guest playing sax, Dana Robbins, who is incredible! If you are in the Nashville area, she is appearing again Friday night April 10 at Bourbon Street Blues. Crystal is an act you don’t want to miss.
