As the year ends, and I look back at what I’ve written for 2023, it occurs to me that there were albums or artists I did not write about. So here are a few thoughts about some of that music that I missed, or overlooked, or ran out of time to accomplish in the past year, but still enjoyed. So, in no particular order, which may or may not be attributed to the off-center windmills of my mind, here they are.
Apologies to those I might have overlooked. It’s hard to find good help, especially when you work alone.
Also, happy new year. Peace, love and blues in 2024.
“Hackney Diamonds” (Polydor) — Yes, the Rolling Stones (in their very senior citizen incarnation) released a new studio album of original material, their first in 18 years, not counting their very tasty blues cover album “Blue & Lonesome” from 2016 (Look it up. It’s quite good.) I thought “Diamonds” was a tough, strong Stones effort. There’s a reason that they’re still the best rock ‘n’ roll band on the planet. I especially enjoy the extended gospel-tinged cut, “Sweet Sounds of Heaven,” with Lady Gaga matching Mick Jagger’s ageless power and energy in a spirited duet. And by the way, isn’t it time that Lady Gaga used a real name? She’s talented enough to just be Stefani Germanotta.
“Songs Of Beauty For Ashes Of Realization” (Treated & Released Records) — An album by the always fascinating Reverend Freakchild that contains a reimagining of songs from his past solo projects. This album is filled with the Rev’s enigmatic Eastern mysticism, some psychedelia and a hint of tantric acid spiked with Buddhism. I’m not exactly sure what most of that means, but it’s thoroughly engaging, filled with the Rev’s engaging messages, and often quite inspiring.
“Friends Along the Way” (Club 88 Records) — Ubiquitous piano man Mitch Woods offers an expanded deluxe edition of this 2-CD album. The format is a delicious duo or trio setting with friends that includes a multitude of musical greats like Van Morrison, Taj Mahal, Ruthie Foster, Elvin Bishop, Maria Muldaur, Charlie Musselwhite, Marcia Ball, John Lee Hooker and many more. The very first track, “C.C. Rider,” with Morrison on vocals is an elegant reading that sets the tone for this expansive musical treat. And don’t miss, if you can, Woods’ regular appearances at the late-night piano bar on the Legendary Rhythm & Blues cruises. I’ve been there, and it’s not to be missed.
“Gallery Of Echoes” (Out Of The Past Music)– Fingerpicking guitar wizard Steve Howell shucks his band of Mighty Men for this eloquent solo outing that digs deep into the roots of great American blues music. He absorbs and tastefully recreates the music of masters such as Blind Lemon Jefferson, Reverend Gary Davis, and Blind Willie McTell. It’s a wonderful history lesson taught with this magical music.
“When the Levee Breaks: The Music of Memphis Minnie” (Little Village Foundation) — Candice Ivory, The Queen of Avant Soul, takes some time off from her usual jazz life, and honors one of the greatest blues talents, Memphis Minnie (born Lizzie Douglas). Minnie is regarded as one of the best blues singer / songwriters, and Ivory’s tribute session is remarkable both for her personalized interpretation of the songs, and her desire to honor this great musician.
“Best of Me” (Gulf Coast Records) — A heartfelt and hard-driving session from guitarist Joanna Connor, who says of this effort: “The album touches on my maturing as a woman, facing mortality with grace and thanks, celebrating love won, love lost, lust and passion, the pain and pleasure of having this human experience.” It would be hard to find a better description of the blues.
“Exorcist” (Alligator Records) — One of the most exciting and creative young blues musicians performing today is Selwyn Birchwood, whose contemporary blues are a sharp-edged mix of traditional blues, funk and soul pulled together with imaginative songwriting. For example, his wickedly satirical track “Florida Man” (which he is) tackles the humor found in the daily news of his home state.
“B’s Time,” — (Sweetspot Records) A retrospective from the creative musical mind of cornetist Al Basile, wo began that career in 1973 as a cornet player with the still kicking Roomful of Blues. Basile says of the songs here: “I have well over 200 songs to choose from, and these are not my only favorites, but these are the ones I feel closest to, for many different reasons.”
“Keep On!” (Blue Heart Records) — Lil’ Red & The Rooster (Jennifer Milligan and Pascal Fouquet) describe their music as “retro modern blues,” but that still makes it hard to categorize their sometimes whimsical, sometimes powerful, always swinging, bluesy sound. Ohio-born Red shares vocals with the French-native Rooster, and his guitar work is sharply sophisticated. Red’s approach to life and music: “Mix what’s pissing you off with some bounce and swing, sprinkle a pinch of blue notes, and bend it all together on six strings for guaranteed feel-good satisfaction.” Amen, Red.
“Like White on Rice” — The Reverend Richard John, a Brit living in Spain, offers a unique take on classic American country blues. He provides a back beat using a wooden stomp box, plays harp, and switches between electric and acoustic guitars, including a 12-string. His vocals blend toughness with soulful messaging wrapped in a rhythmic blues package. He’s definitely worth a listen. After all, if it hadn’t been for the British blues bands bringing the music home, we might not even know about the Howlin’ Wolf.
Blues Roadhouse 