CARL DAVIS

Someday – Tribute to The Kid

212 Records

 Photo by: Jennifer Wheeler

by Linda Cain

If you like ‘50s -‘60s era Chicago blues, you’ll like Carl Davis. If you like R&B influenced blues with a funkier groove, you’ll like Carl Davis. If you like sweet Southern soul that gets your feet movin’ and the romance groovin’, Mr. D fits the bill as well.

Chicago area native Carl Davis is a talented and versatile singer/songwriter and lead guitarist who displays a full range of emotion and musical styles on his sophomore release, *“Someday -- Tribute to The Kid.”

The CD contains ten original tunes, and showcases Davis’ flair as a formidable tunesmith and storyteller.  Most any famous blues artist in need of a catchy new song could find plenty of material here. “Superman (Without the Tights),” with its clever lyrics, booty shakin’ rhythms and excellent guitar and harp solos has “hit” written all over it. Another “Ridin’ With The King,” if you will.

            All nine of the tracks are solid, well thought-out, arranged and performed (Track 10 is more of an extended bass solo than a song).

            Davis assembled a top notch band for this one: Joe Filisko on harp, Lenny Spatafore on drums, Rudy Kleiner on bass, Anthony Tabion on keyboards and Jeff Gilmore on sax.

            As a singer, Davis owns a wonderfully emotional and expressive voice, which can range from silky smooth to gritty and soulful, depending upon what the tune calls for. His versatile vocal style can change from Eric Clapton to David Clayton Thomas, of Blood Sweat & Tears fame.

            His guitar playing is equally as emotive and full of feeling, which is exactly what a blues player should be. A tasteful guitarist, Davis does not overplay and avoids blues-rock hero clichés. Rather, he creates inventive solos that are tailored to convey each song’s mood and story.

            You can catch the Carl Davis Band at blues clubs in Chicago or the suburbs. They have a reputation for fun-filled, energetic live performances.

For more info: www.carldavisband.com

*(RE: “Tribute to The Kid”. The identity of The Kid is revealed through photos on the CD cover and inside. The tribute is given to Davis’ late beloved black Chow dog, rather than a blues hero.)

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