Hambone’s Blues Party

 Top Christmas Spins for

December 2009:

Kermit Ruffins

Have A Crazy Cool Christmas, Basin Street Records

Direct from New Orleans, Kermit Ruffins has Santa doing “the second-line” in the Big Easy. This release is a mix of classic and original cool Christmas songs.  Kermit’s trumpet and vocals evoke the correct joyous spirit of the season.

Phil Spector

Various Artists

A Christmas Gift for You from Phil Spector, Sony Records

If you can separate legendary rock producer Phil Spector’s recent criminal conviction from his groundbreaking work in a recording studio, then this album is a definite stocking stuffer.  Originally recorded in 1963 on the Phillies Record label, this record had the misfortune of being released the same day as JFK’s assassination.  Since then it has been re-released in 1972, 1991 and this year. Featured artists include The Ronettes, the Crystals and Darlene Love.  Of course, Phil Spector’s Wall of Sound can be heard throughout the songs.

Various Artists

The Ultimate Motown Christmas Collection, Motown

The Jackson 5, Stevie Wonder, the Temptations, the Supremes, Smokey Robinson and the list goes on. Most of Motown’s artists released Christmas music over the years and the iconic label has just released a two-CD, 51-track compilation that truly is the ultimate collection.

The Brian Setzer Orchestra

Ultimate Christmas Collection, Surfdog Records

Yet  another ultimate Yuletide collection from big band leader and former Stray Cats guitarist Setzer. This “best of” CD culls a greatest Christmas hits from his previous albums, Boogie Woogie Christmas and Dig That Crazy Christmas. But wait, there’s more. The collection includes two new originals and a DVD of the Orchestra’s exciting live show Christmas Extravangaza that clocks in with 25 songs in nearly two hours of nonstop jump blues, swing, and rock’n’roll fun.

B.B. King

A Christmas Celebration of Hope, MCA

In 2001, the King of the Blues paid tribute to another King with his Grammy-winning Christmas CD.  B.B. King and his Lucille inhabit Yule classics with blues power and emotions that ring true for this wonderful time of the year. B.B. and his swingin’ big band cover  “Lonesome Christmas,”  “Back Door Santa,”  “I’ll Be Home For Christmas,” “Merry Christmas Baby,” and “Auld Lang Syne” in their own inimitable style. Proceeds from this CD’s sales go to City of Hope.

###

Hambone’s Blues Party

 Top Spins for November 2009

Arthur Adams

Stomp the Floor, Delta Groove Records

This Los Angeles guitarist and vocalist is known as a first line studio musician.  He’s recorded with The Crusaders, Jerry Garcia, Bonnie Raitt, B.B. King and Nina Simone.  Arthur’s falsetto voice and sophisticated guitar work create a fresh, unique and stylish sound. It is great to hear this musician’s musician front and center.

Eugene Hideaway Bridges

Live in San Antonio, Armadillo Records

This CD, recorded live at Chango’s Havana Club, is one lively, jumpin’ Texas blues party.  For a live recording, the sound quality is quite good and you feel like you’re sitting in the bar as you listen to it.  Hideaway has been flying under the radar for a few years and maybe this release will get him the national buzz he deserves.

Long John Hunter

Looking for a Party, Blue Express Records

Texas legendary bluesman Long John Hunter may not be swinging from the Lobby Bar’s rafters in Juarez anymore, but he proves he still has some rocking left in him on this new album.  Producer Dennis Walker (Robert Cray’s old producer) recruited Cray alumni Richard Cousin and Jim Pugh to back Long John. It has been a while since Long John has put out a new record, and this one is most welcome.

Murali Coryell

Sugar Lips, Murali Music Records

Murali Coryell’s newest release is exceptional.  This Nashville recording features either his dad Larry Coryell or Joe Louis Walker on most of the songs.  Murali is a fine wordsmith and songwriter. Slow, fast and in between, Murali put his heart and soul into this emotional and introspective album.

Julius Pittman & The Revival

Bucket List, Maeco Records

Julius is one soulful vocalist and greasy keyboard player from Richmond, Va.  His record is old school R&B that features a full horn section and backup vocalists.  He does a fine version of “A Good Fool Is Hard to Find,” plus originals.

###

Hambone’s Blues Party

 Top Spins for October 2009

Joe Louis Walker

Between A Rock and The Blues, Stony Plain

JLW has put out a real fine contemporary blues disc.  Produced by Duke Robillard and backed by Duke’s band mates and session men, this record sizzles.  JLW has long been thought of as the one of Blues’ brightest young stars and this release adds to his reputation.  Slow, fast or in-between tempos, JLW demonstrates fine guitar work and emotional vocals.  Do yourself a favor and give this one a listen.

Darrell Nulisch

Just for You, Severn Records

Like fellow Severn Records recording artists Lou Pride and Tad Robinson, Darrell Nulisch sings soulful songs with an old-school feel.  Although this record clocks in at only 38 minutes, each song is carefully arranged and sounds great.  If you never heard the vocal stylings of Darrell, this new CD is Just For You!

Sean Costello

A Memorial Retrospective, Landslide Records

Guitarist and vocalist Sean Costello died too young in 4/08, one day prior to his 29th birthday.  This “best of” CD, features cuts from three previous albums and some live performances.  My favorite is the slow burner cover of Otis Rush’s “Double Trouble.”  I met Sean at Buddy Guy’s Legends about 7 years ago, he was quick to smile and mild mannered.  His death has robbed the blues community of an extremely talented performer.  Celebrate his life and his music with this fine retrospective release.

Tinsley Ellis

Speak No Evil, Alligator Records

Six-string gunslinger Tinsley Ellis, once again demonstrates his incendiary guitar work on this new album containing all original material.  Tinsley’s voice has grown more confident and his playing has never been better. Driving, smoking and going for the jugular best describe this outstanding new album. His tenacity reminds me a little bit of Son Seals.

Shirley Smith

In Hymn I Trust, The Sirens Records

Local record company The Sirens Records produces jazz and gospel recordings from under-the-radar musicians.  Shirley Smith makes her debut for this label with a nice mixture of spirituals, hymns and contemporary gospel music.  She sings all choir parts: soprano, alto and tenor in perfect harmony and her piano playing is quite vibrant.  You’ll feel both sanctified and blessed while listening to Shirley praise The Lord in song.

###

Hambone’s Blues Party

 Top Spins for September 2009

Just as the summer is coming to an end, blues bands and record labels are harvesting their crops and putting out a lot of fine recordings.  Here are my top picks for September.

Quintus McCormick Blues Band

Hey Jodie, Delmark

Chicago blues guitarist and singer, Quintus McCormick has been a sideman for many top blues stars over the years.  With his first major label release, Quintus has stepped into the spotlight on center stage.  Backed by an all-star horn section with Kenny Anderson, Hank Ford and the ageless Willie Henderson, Quintus shines on with his original songs, tasty guitar licks and confident singing.  Jodie better watch out!!!

The Robert Cray Band

This Time, Nozzle Records

I just saw Robert Cray at Naperville's "Last Fling."   He remains a popular bluesman for the new generation.  His new cd is filled with ballads and slow-tempo intimate songs.  It's a fine album, but he only really rocks out on one song.

Zora Young

The French Connection, Delmark Records

American blues musicians have always found open arms and engaged souls while performing in Europe.  Chicago blues diva Zora Young continues this tradition on her new release recorded in France with European musicians.  Zora mixes blues standards, gospel and country songs with three different bands backing her. She even covers Elvis' "In the Ghetto."  You'll like this one.

Johnny Rawls

Ace of Spades, Catfood Records

Milwaukee based Johnny Rawls is one of the most underrated talents in bluesland.  He has consistently put out well-produced, original deep Southern soul records for years. His new album is excellent. He plays old school soulful blues with funky beats and real life lyrics.  This record will be playing in my Cadillac for a long time.  Do yourself a favor and give it a listen.  If you don't like it, you better go see Dr. Feelgood, because you got a hole in your soul.

Mike Zito

Pearl River, Electrogroove Records

Young guitarist and vocalist Mike Zito continues to impress and make a name for himself across the country.  On this new recording, produced by David Z., Mike plays mostly original material with help from guest artists Anders Osborne, Cyril Neville and Susan Cowsill.  He grew up in New Orleans and returns there to cook up a gumbo of different styles of blues. With his husky vocals and hard rockin' guitar, Mike is well on his way to the big time.

Aaron Williams and The Hoodoo

It Ain't Easy

From Madison, Wisconsin Aaron Williams fronts a dynamite blues power trio.  The CD features original songs played with a sense of urgency and strength. They don't hold anything back and this is the perfect disc to kick off football season.

Hambone’s Blues Party  Top 5 Spins for August 2009 Hambone has picked some hot, sultry and sizzlin’ new releases to go along with the dog days of summer. Tommy Castro Hard Believer, Alligator Records West Coast singer and guitarist Tommy Castro makes his label debut for Alligator Records.  This new recording showcases Tommy’s fervid vocals and blues-infused rocking R&B.  Produced by John Porter, Hard Believer, features a tight band and hard-charging grooves. Old fans will rejoice and new fans will discover what the buzz is all about. Blue Road Live at Gabe’s Backstage Lounge, GMS Records Chicagoland’s Blue Road band (formerly known as Blue Truth) is a veteran troupe led by guitarist Gary Gand and keyboardist Joan Gand.  Fronting this funky, rockin’ band is legendary blue-eyed soul singer Jimy Rogers.  In the 1960s, Jimy and his band The Mauds were the first white band to record at Chess Studios.  Some 40 years later, Jimy has blown back onto the local scene without losing any of his chops.  I recently had Blue Road perform on the air, and I can honestly say that I never had more fun with a band during my 15 years on the radio.  Jimy is one of the finest vocal stylists and dynamic entertainers in Chicago.  This excellently recorded live release captures a classic set of blues, soul and rock. Their version of “People Get Ready” is killer!!   Bobby Slim James  Brand New Man, Anne G Records Bobby Slim James is a veteran of Chicago’s South Side and West Side clubs.  On his new record, he has teamed up with renowned songwriter, promoter and publisher Bob Jones to produce a straightforward, no-nonsense contemporary urban blues CD.  I like this one a lot.   Dave Keller, Play For Love, Tastee Tone Records Dave Keller came to national prominence by singing on Ronnie Earl’s latest CD. On his new record, Dave demonstrates his impassioned vocals and fine guitar work.  A native of Vermont, Dave proves that creative blues music is not restricted to urban dwellers. Most of his songs are soulful and sanctified.  Not all blues songs need to be played fast, furious or loud, and Dave’s laid-back approach is refreshing.    J.P. Soars & the Redhots Back of My Mind, Soars High Productions Florida bluesman J.P. Soars won the 2009 IBC.  He has released a nice CD featuring his gruff vocals and gritty, stingin’ guitar. Whether performing creative originals or covering classics such as “Gangster of Love,” JP plays his heart out on each cut. His song “Will I Ever” is extra fine.  Check this one out.  http://www.jpsoars.com/

Hambone’s Blues Party

 Top Spins for June/July 2009: 

Due to the abundance of blues festivals in June, which kept him busy emceeing (and having fun), Hambone has combined his June/July Top Spins column this time around.

Delmark All-Stars

It Ain’t Over, Delmark Records

 This dynamic new release celebrates Chicago’s own Delmark Records’ 55 years of producing blues records.  Recorded live at Buddy Guy’s Legends in March 2008, this exciting CD features Lurrie Bell, Jimmy Johnson, Zora Young, Dave Specter, Eddie Shaw, Shirley Johnson, Tail Dragger, Aaron Moore and the late Little Arthur Duncan giving it their all onstage. Delmark also has released a DVD of the all-star tribute concert.

Candye Kane

Superhero, Delta Groove Records

Sultry singer Candye Kane delivers a powerful album following her near-miraculous recovery from pancreatic cancer last year.  This release contains mostly original material with Candye singing her heart out.  The liner notes contain some inspirational comments from this dynamic performer.

Eddie C. Campbell

Tear This World Up, Delmark Records

Eddie C. Campbell, “The King of the West Side Funky Blues,” has been under-recorded to date.  This new CD, produced by legendary producer Dick Shurman, showcases the best of this West Side guitarist.  Backed by an all-star band, Eddie, who just turned 70 years old, plays some classic-style blues with a sense of humor to boot.

Ronnie Earl & The Broadcasters

Living in the Light,   Stony Plain Records

This is the best album I have heard all year.  Plaintive, emotive and downright bluesy, guitarist Ronnie Earl lets loose on this CD.  Kim Wilson is a guest vocalist and Dave Limina provides the grease on the organ.  Don’t miss this one!!!

Greg Nagy

Walk That Fine Thin Line, Big O Records.

Flint, Michigan native Greg Nagy plays a tasty guitar and has a fine soulful voice. The CD boasts some nice production and a good band. Nagy’s a fresh talent on the blues scene in the Midwest to watch.

The 3rd Annual Delta Groove All-Star Blues Revue

Live at Ground Zero, Delta Groove Records

This two-CD set features the Delta Groove recording artists: The Mannish Boys, Finis Tasby, Philip Walker, Mike Zito, Kid Ramos, Jackie Payne, Steve Edmunson, Jason Ricci and others.  The live performances sound great and have a true live quality.  I could feel the vibe in the club as I listened to these discs.  Some of the performers really stretch out to the pleasure of the crowd.  I dig this one!

Richard Ray Farrell & The Spanish Band

Camino de Sanlucar

Recorded in Spain with guitarist Raimundo Amador (a full-blooded Gypsy from Seville), this new release from guitarist Richard Ray Farrell has a nice mix of bluesy originals and well thought out covers. The Spanish band provides a different, spicy, spirited groove.  It’s the perfect record for a hot summer night.

Duke Robillard’s Jumpin Blues Revue

Stomp! The Blues Tonight, Stony Plain Records

Duke returns to his roots with a rockin’ CD featuring early R&B hits from the 1940s and 1950s.  Many of his former band mates from Roomful of Blues help create a swinging new album that is sure to put some slip in your hip.  Jump Blues fans will rejoice and flip their wigs when they put this one on the Hi-Fi.

Rick Estrin & The Nightcats

Twisted, Alligator Records

Little Charlie has left the band and young turk Kid Andersen has replaced him. The formula, however, remains the same:  original material, great lyrics, tight band and a whole bunch of fun.

###

Hambone’s Blues Party is broadcast from the back seat of Hambone’s Cadillac, parked on the corner of Jazz Avenue and Blues Boulevard. His radio show can be heard on WDCB 90.9FM and simulcast at www.wdcb.org every Thursday night from 10 pm to midnight CST. Hambone features the best of contemporary blues and classic R&B and soul.  He plays blues with some rhythm, blues with some jump and blues with some soul.

Hambone’s Blues Party

 Top 5 Spins for May 2009: 

Chicago Blues Harmonica Project

More Rare Gems, Severn

 As the name suggests, this new release features seven Chicago harmonica players:  Reginald Cooper, Charlie Love, Harmonica Hinds, Little Arthur Duncan, Jeff Taylor, Russ Green and Big D backed by an all-star band. There are a variety of styles demonstrated by these harp masters who prove that blues harmonica is alive and kickin’ in Chicagoland.

Linsey Alexander

My Days Are So Long, Hoochieman Music

Chicago’s own Hoochie Man, Linsey Alexander, has released a self-produced CD featuring all original songs.  This recording features the late Chico Banks on guitar. Linsey is a spirited entertainer when he performs live and this CD captures that spirit.

Omar Dykes

Big Town Playboy, Ruf

Texas blues singer Omar teams up with Jimmie Vaughan, James Cotton, Lou Ann Barton and Lazy Lester to create a true blues album. Omar has a “whiskey and cigarette” voice that oozes emotion and style. This is straight-ahead blues, Texas style.

Kermit Ruffins

Livin’ A Treme Life, Basin Street Records

Trumpeter and vocalist Kermit takes us down to the Treme (tray-may) District of New Orleans with a mixture of jazz, blues and New Orleans Second Line music.  Kermit is recognized as the musical ambassador of the Crescent City, so sit back and enjoy this musical ride through the streets of The Big Easy.

Going Fishin’

The Great Fishing Songs Ever, Sony Music

In honor of springtime, I pulled out this old compilation that features classic songs about fishing from 1951-1994.  Included in this set are such classics as:  “Catfish Boogie” by Tennessee Ernie Ford and “The Fishing Hole” by Andy Griffith.  So bait your hook, throw out you line and catch the big one.

###

Hambone’s Blues Party

 Top 5 Spins for April 2009: 

Nick Moss & The Flip Tops w/ Lurrie Bell

Live at Chan’s: Combo Platter No.2, Blue Bella Records

Chicagoan Nick Moss returns to Chan's in Rhode Island with a smoking live recording featuring Lurrie Bell.  Nick and Lurrie recreate the Southside blues joints with some head-cuttin’ guitar licks.  Nick has always stayed true to traditional Chicago blues while bringing a sense of contemporary urgency to his live sets.  This record is best served hot!!  Enjoy.

Lubriphonic

Soul Solution, Lubricated Records

Chicago-based Lubriphonic plays “groovy organic funky rock.” This new hard-charging release has catchy original tunes and fine musicianship.  I had not heard them until I received this CD and I have been playing it non-stop ever since.  Need a little soul in your life?  Pick up “Soul Solution.”

Billy Boy Arnold, John Primer, Billy Branch, Lurrie Bell

Chicago Blues: A Living History, Raisin’ Music

Larry Skoller (brother of blues harpist Matt) produced this double CD which pays tribute to Chicago Blues Masters.  The first disc features songs recorded from 1940 to 1955.  The second disc features tunes from 1955 to the present.  The Living History Band is made up of Matthew Skoller, Billy Flynn, Felton Crews, Johnny Iguana and Kenny Smith.  They back the musicians noted above. Carlos Johnson and Mike Avery also turn in great guest performances.  A very informative 24-page booklet denotes the songs, the musicians and the history of Chicago Blues. For more info visit: www.chicagobluesalivinghistory.com

Buckwheat Zydeco

Lay Your Burden Down, Alligator Records

Stanley “Buckwheat” Dural, Jr. has been playing his style of Zydeco for over 30 years.  This new record features guests Warren Haynes and Sonny Landreth. Just in time for the New Orleans Jazz & Heritage Festival, this CD will have you partying like you are walking down to the French Quarter.

Ry Cooder

The UFO Has Landed, Warner Brothers/Rhino

 This is the first ever anthology of guitar wizard Ry Cooder.  A true musician’s musician, Ry has been producing Americana music on record since 1970.This double-disc offers a sampling of Ry’s music throughout the years.  This is truly a special treat.

###

Hambone’s Blues Party

 Top 5 Spins for March 2009: 

Shirley Johnson

 Blues Attack, Delmark Records

This Chicago blues diva has a new hot CD on Delmark.  Shirley’s new release is enhanced by an All-Star Chicago blues band along with a kick-ass horn section (Lawrence Fields, Kenny Anderson, Hank Ford and Willie Henderson).  The 14-song disc features both originals and classic covers (Ray Charles, Wilson Pickett). Shirley has always been a great live performer and her new CD allows her to translate that live energy into this recorded session.  Get ready for a Blues Attack.

Eric Lindell

Gulf Coast Highway, Alligator Records

Eric Lindell’s third release on Alligator Records continues his rise to stardom.  Eric plays catchy tunes with irresistible laid back grooves.  His songwriting is refreshing and his presentation is real.  Although not “strictly blues” and not easy to categorize, if I had to label his music it would be “Funky American Soulful Original Music with a New Orleans Vibe to Boot” (or something like that). Eric is one of my favorite young artists, and if you have not yet had the pleasure of hearing him, do yourself a favor and check out this CD. (Release date: March 24)

Seth Walker

 Leap of Faith, Hyena Records

Produced by tunesmith Gary Nicholson, this new album by Seth Walker is very impressive.  The album demonstrates Seth’s vocal and six-string talent along with some fine lyrics.  Seth sounds great swingin’ and swayin’ as well as when he sings plaintive ballads.  The production is top notch and this CD will be spinning on my home juke box for quite some time.  Nice!

Red Holloway

 Go Red Go, Delmark Records

Tenor sax man Red Holloway has produced a smoking hot new CD.  Backed by Chris Foreman on the B-3, Henry Johnson on guitar and Greg Rockingham keeping the beat (with special guest George Freeman), Red gives a lesson in jazz.  Red attended Du Sable High and was taught by legendary band-taskmaster Captain Walter Dyett.  Now in his eighties, Red shows he can swing with the youngest of cats.  I’m truly entranced by this album.

Johnny “Guitar” Watson

 Best of the Funk Years, Shout

Let’s travel in The Way Back Machine and give another listen to an original guitarist and vocalist Johnny “Guitar” Watson.  This CD covers his famous hits including, “Gangster of Love,” “A Real Mother For Ya” and “Aint That a Bitch.”  The mid-1970s never sounded so funky.

###

Hambone’s Blues Party

 Top 5 Spins for February 2009:

John Nemeth

Love Me Tonight, Blind Pig

On his new album, John Nemeth continues to impress with his vocals and harmonica playing.  This CD contains almost all original material and John demonstrates a musical prowess beyond his years.  It’s good to see young cats creating such fine music.

The Derek Trucks Band

Already Free, Victor Records/Sony Music Entertainment

This is an excellent CD produced by slide wizard Derek Trucks.  Soulful tunes, slow grooves, gospel-tinged and rockin’ blues, this new release has it all.  There are so many good songs on this album, it’s hard to pick a favorite. This is one of the best sounding CD’s I have heard in years.  Do yourself a favor and give it a listen.

Bobby Jones

Comin’ Back Hard, Delta Groove

Backed by the all-star band, The Mannish Boys, Bobby Jones sings his heart out on this new release.  From straight-blues, to soul to classic R&B, Bobby gives us a lesson on the true meaning “vocal stylist.”  The band is tight and Bobby shines throughout this recording.

Shemekia Copeland

Never Going Back, Telarc Blues

Blues diva Shemekia Copeland really shines on her new record.  She has always possessed some strong pipes, but shows a new sense of sophistication and style on this album.  The song list mixes various styles and tempos which allows Shemekia to demonstrate her vocal dexterity.  This is a really fine CD.

Ruthie Foster

The Truth According To Ruthie Foster, Blue Corn Music

Backed by veterans Robben Ford and Jim Dickinson, Ruthie Foster has put together a soulful and spiritual recording.  All around, her performance is top notch.  The more I listen to it, the more I like it.  She has a great voice and really knows how to sing.  You will dig this one.

###

Hambone’s Blues Party

 Top 10 CDs for 2008

Before we head into 2009, I thought it would be cool to recall my favorite releases for 2008.  Here are my Top 10 in no particular order:

 January 2009:

Liz Mandeville

Red Top, Earwig Records

Chicago blues diva Liz Mandeville is sassy and sultry.  Many have called her the "Bette Midler of the Blues."  Her new album displays her tenderness, her toughness and her ability to rock.

Backed by a top-notch Chicago band, Liz blasts through original material with a humorous zest for life.  Her songs "Spanky Butt" and "Guilty of Rockin' All Night" will have you dancing in your living room.

Lil’ Ed & The Blues Imperials

Full Tilt, Alligator Records

Lil’ Ed’s newest CD on Alligator Records celebrates his reputation as the best houserocking bluesman in the land.  Lil’ Ed’s slide guitar, singing and songwriting have matured with each of his albums.  This one is sure to please his fans, Ed Heads, and make new fans, too.  As the title suggests, it’s pedal-to-the-metal and balls- to-the-wall good-time party music that has an irresistible groove.

Clarence Spady

 Just Between Us, Severn Records

From Scranton, Pa. Clarence Spady delivers a soulful blues delight.  He is a skilled guitarist, emotive singer and inventive songwriter.  This CD has an irresistible groove and gets better with each listening.  If you don’t like this release, you better go see Dr. Feelgood, because you have a hole in your soul.  Just Between Us is my favorite record of 2008.

Curtis Salgado

Clean Getaway, Shanachie Records

Curtis Salgado allegedly was the inspiration to John Belushi for his Blues Brothers’ persona.  After a recent battle with some medical problems, Curtis has come back with a fabulous new CD.  He has one of the sweetest voices in blues and soul. There is not a bad cut on this entire CD

Dave Herrero

Austin to Chicago, Ferey Records/ Hero Music Group

Dave Herrero joins forces with Felix Reyes to produce an exciting new CD.  Dave’s guitar work and emotive vocals will knock your blues socks off.  Mixing Texas feelings with Chicago blues, Dave is one of the young turks of the local blues scene that will soon be in the spotlight.  Some songs are tender, others are rough & tumble. Dave Herrero brings a maturity to his music that belies his age.

Patrick Green

Popcorn Man, Across the Border Records

Houston’s Patrick Green, a.k.a. The PG Man, played one of the most entertaining sets that I have ever seen at this year’s Chicago Blues Festival.  The PG Man is a confident vocalist and true showman.  He’s soulful, funky and fun.  His tune, “Got Me on the Lockdown” was playing in my house all summer long.

Kenny Neal

 Let Life Flow, Blind Pig Records

Let Life Flow is a truly inspirational offering from Kenny Neal. This CD sounds like Kenny is playing right in your living room.  A nice mixture of soul, blues and classic R&B (“Since I Met You Baby”), “Let Life Flow” is a personal testament from one of blues’ true superstars.

Dave Specter

Live in Chicago, Delmark Records

Recorded at Buddy Guy’s Legends and Rosa’s Blues Lounge, Dave Specter has produced a great live CD with an all-star blues band.  Following in the tradition of blues revues, Dave features three different vocalists, each with their distinctive style. Tad Robinson brings his soulful sound, Jimmy Johnson demonstrates his unique and strong voiceand Sharon Lewis spices up the mix.

Dave adds a couple of original instrumentals that showcase his blues/jazz guitar grooves.  This is an extra-fine CD from first song to last note. Also available on DVD.

Eric Lindell

Low on Cash, Rich in Love, Alligator Records

An irresistible album that grooves throughout all the songs.  Mostly original compositions highlight Eric’s second release on Alligator Records.  It was released early in the year and still is on my jukebox at home.  I can’t get enough of Eric Lindell and can’t wait for his next release.

Mighty Mike Schermer

 Right Hand Man, Fine Dog Records

Bay Area session guitarist Mighty Mike Schermer backs 13 different singers on this exciting CD.  Soulful tunes from Earl Thomas and Howard Tate are topnotch, along with some fiery vocals from Angela Strehli.  All styles of blues are covered here and Mighty Mike shows why he’s a top axman.

###

Hambone’s Blues Party is broadcast from the back seat of Hambone’s Cadillac, parked on the corner of Jazz Avenue and Blues Boulevard. His radio show can be heard on WDCB 90.9FM and simulcast at www.wdcb.org every Thursday night from 10 pm to midnight CST. Hambone features the best of contemporary blues and classic R&B and soul.  He plays blues with some rhythm, blues with some jump and blues with some soul.

###