Reviews for December 2011

James Armstrong,  Blues At The Border (Catfood). Smooth urban blues, soulful and tight.  My picks include Somebody Got to Pay (2) and High Maintenance Woman (7) and Brand New Man (10). – NAD 12/11

Sharon Lewis & Texas Fire, The Real Deal (Delmark).  High power Chicago blues featuring Ms. Lewis’ a fine vocals.  The title track (2), with a blast of horns, is a standout.  On the slower side, I like Ain’t no Sunshine (11), but this is a CD to explore and enjoy.  – NAD 12/11

Toronzo Cannon, Leaving Mood (Delmark).  Satisfying urban blues with just enough energy in the guitar to give it an edge.  My pick is I Can't Take Her Nowhere (7) for the clever lyrics, and Earnestine (11) which features Carl Weathersby. – NAD 12/11

Earnest Roy, Going Down To Clarksdale (JunBug).  The title gives a great idea of where this is coming from, “the real juke joints” down in Mississippi.   This is a fun CD, and just the thing for anyone who is missing Big Jack Johnson, or the Jelly Roll Kings.  Check out Going Down to Clarksdale (2), How Long (5) or Hard Headed Woman (1) and see if you don’t want to book a flight down south yourself.  – NAD 12/11