Friday, January 13, 2023

Mick Clarke - The Blues, Man, The Blues

Size: 58.0 MB
Time: 25:02
File: MP3 @ 320K/s
Released: 2023
Styles: Blues Rock
Art: Front

01. I Sing Um The Way I Feel (3:44)
02. I Asked For Water (5:00)
03. Doing The Best I Can (3:56)
04. Mizzable Blues (3:54)
05. Baby Please Don't Throw Me Down (3:48)
06. Love Her With A Feeling (4:38)

British blues guitarist Mick Clarke began his career with KILLING FLOOR, part of the British blues boom of the late 1960s and contemporaries of Free, Black Sabbath and Led Zeppelin. The band backed Texas blues guitar star Freddie King and toured with legends Howlin’ Wolf and Otis Spann. The album “Killing Floor” was later listed as one of Classic Rock Magazine’s twenty top British blues albums of the time. In the 70s Mick’s band SALT built a strong following in the UK, playing at the Reading Festival 1977 and opening for Muddy Waters in London.

The Mick Clarke Band was formed in the early 80s and has toured in the UK, Europe, USA and India, where Mick was the winner of the “best international act” from artistaloud.com. Mick has appeared on numerous festivals with artists including Joe Bonamassa, Johnny Winter and Rory Gallagher, and the Southern California Blues Society called him “One of the finest blues players to come out of England”.

The Blues, Man, The Blues MP3
The Blues, Man, The Blues FLAC

Jewel Brown - Thanks For Good Ole' Music And Memories

Size: 87.3 MB
Time: 37:13
File: MP3 @ 320K/s
Released: 2023
Styles: Blues Jazz
Art: Full

01. Jerry (Feat. Rads Krusaders & Live! In The Clutch) (3:54)
02. Pain And Glory (1:29)
03. Why Did You Do That (3:29)
04. Which Way Is Up (3:52)
05. Nitches And Glitches (4:29)
06. Flatitude (2:14)
07. I Love Sunshine And Rainy Nights (4:51)
08. Song Of The Dreamer (4:10)
09. On The Road (5:04)
10. How Did It Go (3:38)

The music industry is full of stories. Some good. Some not so good. But it must be said, it’s not every day that a magical storyline like Jewel Brown’s comes around.

Her journey started back before her teen years. Like most musical talents at the time, Jewel began singing in the church. But it didn’t take her long to start a commercial singing career. In fact, she played her first show when she was just 12, and she was cutting records by the time she was a teenager. Brown recorded a handful of hit songs with Clyde Otis in the mid-’50s for Liberty Records and by the early ’60s she was playing jazz clubs nationally, many of which happened to be owned by Jack Ruby. Yep, that Jack Ruby.

But Jewel Brown was and still is, best known for her work with Louis Armstrong and His All-Star Band. She sang with Satchmo from 1961 until 1968, until Armstrong fell ill. She continued singing for a while after her stint with Armstrong, headlining shows, mainly in Vegas. She stepped out of the limelight in the early ’70s, not because there wasn’t a demand for her talent, but because it was time for her to care for her aging parents.

But her success didn’t end with show biz. Jewel started up numerous businesses and enjoyed a successful career as, of all things, an insurance agent, a career she nurtured until retiring from the business in 2000. Jewel still receives calls from people looking to buy insurance from someone “they can trust.”

Though retired, her generations of fans didn’t allow her musical legacy to be forgotten. In 2007 she was inducted into the Blues Smithsonian and in 2015 she received a congressional acknowledgment for her contribution to the arts. And, in 2020, Houston Mayor Sylvester Turner set aside December 12, 2020, as Jewel Brown Day.

But the story’s not over, not by a longshot. Today, Jewel Brown is back, this time, for the first time, with songs of her own. Thanks for Good Ole’ Music and Memories is Brown’s long-awaited new recording, done in collaboration with Nic Allen (better known as Joe Sample’s longtime musical director). “Over the years,” she notes in her bio, “I had the opportunity to work with various songwriters, but I never put my name on anything. I feel like the Lord has given back to me what was taken, and I’ve enjoyed doing a lot of writing lately with Nic.”

The ten jazz and blues tracks on the album reflect that collaboration. While it nods to Brown’s legacy, revisiting two songs that form important chapters in her musical history (the brilliantly updated opener “Did You Hear About Jerry” and the lush “Song of the Dreamer,” written by her ex-husband Eddie Curtis.) But there’s so much more, including the rockin’ cover “Which Way Is Up,” the a cappella “Pain and Glory,” the jazzy “Why Did You Do That,” and the boppin’, bluesy closer “How Did It Go.” The recording is rich and full, showcasing great playing and Brown’s elegant, sage-like vocals.

So, no, it’s not your typical throwaway comeback recording. Thanks for Good Ole’ Music and Memories is an inspired reintroduction of an impressive talent, an important musical figure, and, best of all, an incredible voice.

Thanks For Good Ole' Music And Memories MP3
Thanks For Good Ole' Music And Memories FLAC

Jared James Nichols - Jared James Nichols

Size: 101.9 MB
Time: 43:07
File: MP3 @ 320K/s
Released: 2023
Styles: Blues Rock
Art: Front

01. My Delusion (2:26)
02. Easy Come, Easy Go (4:17)
03. Down The Drain (3:28)
04. Hard Wired (4:00)
05. Bad Roots (3:29)
06. Skin 'N Bone (3:23)
07. Long Way Home (2:47)
08. Shadow Dancer (5:04)
09. Good Time Girl (2:34)
10. Hallelujah (3:06)
11. Saint Or Fool (3:54)
12. Out Of Time (4:33)

Singer, songwriter, guitarist, and Gibson brand ambassador Jared James Nichols has announced his self-titled new album, features the new single “Down The Drain” as well as the previously released “Hard Wired.” The forthcoming collection showcases every side of the Nashville-based multi-talent and the various genres he grew up listening to, whether it was grunge or blues, that have influenced his authentic sound. Jared James Nichols is available now to pre-save or pre-add on all digital music platforms and pre-order on CD.

“I made a record to serve as the menu for the live show,” Nichols shares. “There’s an element of excitement and danger. It’s my version of rock ‘n’ roll with a little more humanity. The album is a day in the life with the ups and downs, but it musically rings true to who I am as an artist. I’m not trying to be anybody but myself and play the music I love for today. I’m giving you loud ass gui-tars and no fucks given rock ‘n’ roll, and I’m loving it.”

Ahead of today’s official album announcement, Nichols released the lead single “Down The Drain” in late October. The hard-hitting track has already been praised by Guitar World and Loudwire, among others, and has been featured across DSP playlists with placements on Tidal’s Guitar Gods (as the cover artist) and Rising: Indie/Rock, Spotify’s Modern Blues Rock, and Apple Music’s New In Rock and Breaking Hard Rock.

Jared James Nichols was produced, engineered, and mixed by Eddie Spear (Zach Bryan, Slash, Rival Sons) and recorded live in the studio at Blackbird Studios and Sienna Studios, reflecting the spirit of his electrifying live show on tape like never before. The recording sessions occurred at a pivotal moment for Nichols, who almost never performed again as he had been sidelined only a few months earlier with a broken arm. After surgery, which left him with a plate and 16 screws in his right arm, he pushed himself with diligence and determination to regain use of his arm and his storied guitar proficiency. Nichols soon paved the way for the record with the hypnotic and hyper-charged “Hard Wired,” released in the spring of 2022. Born from a jam session with Tyler Bryant and Graham Whitford, the single bulldozed a path for Jared James Nichols with no short-age of raw and raucous six-string bravado. From the jump, the album kicks into high gear with the bluesy wallop of “My Delusion.”

Elsewhere on the 12-track collection is the Black Sabbath-inspired “Hallelujah,” where a flurry of drums gives way to a thick and heavy battering ram of a blues riff only to crash into a rickety bass line and atomic shredding, and the party homage “Good Time Girl.” Jared James Nichols culminates on the emotionally charged “Out Of Time,” his heartfelt and tearful tribute to his late father. See below for full track listing.

With nothing more than a Gibson Les Paul slung over his shoulder, a warm amp turned all the way up, and a hot microphone on and ready, Jared James Nichols churns out the kind of rock that rips, roars, and rolls without filter or apology. Nichols, who stands at a staggering 6 foot 5 inches tall, delivers a one-two punch of gritty vocals straight from the gut and incendiary fret fireworks. Jared first emerged onto the scene in 2015 with his debut Old Glory & The Wild Re-vival and followed that up with Black Magic in 2018, which yielded the fan favorite “Honey For-give Me.” More recently, he issued the Shadow Dancer EP (2021) and collaborated earlier this year with both Maggie Rose and Joe Bonamassa for revised versions of his song “Threw Me To The Wolves.” Gibson also formally welcomed Nichols as an official ambassador, plotting the release of several signature Jared James Nichols guitars. Since his debut, Nichols has racked up millions of streams and critical acclaim and, in between show-stopping solo shows, has per-formed alongside icons such as Slash, Billy Gibbons, Zakk Wylde, and even the late Leslie West, to name a few. Guitar World has attested, “If you’ve never witnessed Jared James Nichols onstage, let us say right now: you’re missing out, big time.” By keeping it simple, Jared remains primed to leave his imprint on rock ‘n’ roll forever.

Jared James Nichols MP3
Jared James Nichols FLAC

Glamour Puss - Blues du Jour

Size: 395 MB
Time: 56:00
File: Flac
Released: 1999
Styles: Blues
Art: Front

1. But They Should (4:05)
2. Rockin' In the Pocket (2:59)
3. Businessman (3:17)
4. It Takes One To Know One (4:17)
5. Living Large (3:29)
6. Fishbelly (2:04)
7. Right Sized (3:33)
8. Hey, Hey, Slack la Patate (2:22)
9. Baby Gotta Rock All Night (3:22)
10. Won't Look Back (3:27)
11. Everybody Gets The Blues (3:54)
12. Cajun Woman (3:33)
13. Mike a Joe (2:55)
14. Roll With The Punches (2:57)
15. Blues du Jour (2:42)
16. Au Bout du Voyage (3:27)
17. Craquer (3:29)

Celebrated as one of Atlantic Canada’s top national/international touring acts from Moncton, New Brunswick, Glamour Puss saw a personnel change followed by release of their 5th recording. Photo: Gilles Landry There has never been a Canadian band quite like Glamour Puss. Who can they be compared to? Making music is a fickle vocation and it seems that many bands are defined by a song or two, perhaps even a couple of albums. In Glamour Puss there lies however a more treasured creation. Here is an Atlantic Canadian act that has aggressively pursued its raison d'ĂȘtre, courting risk at every turn and assuring their future in the process. Always re-inventing, repositioning, re-contextualizing and not once bowing to a challenge, theyPhoto: Gilles Landry have never sounded like anything but themselves. In the last decade Glamour Puss has developed a reputation as one of Atlantic Canada’s lead touring bands. Their energetic music uniquely incorporates vibrant elements of Swing, Blues, Rock and Roll, Rhythm and Blues and a unique Acadian flavour of their East Coast roots. Glamour Puss has a truly identifiable sound they can rightly call their own. With such a broad approach to Photo: Gilles Landrytheir original music audiences continue to be all ages, families, couples, groups of best friends out to dance and have a great time. Glamour Puss has toured without end throughout Canada, the United States and overseas, taking their infectious Atlantic Canadian music worldwide developing fans and friends always leaving their audience smiling. Since January 2005 Glamour Puss has been in pre-Photo: Gilles Landryproduction creating new music and updating arrangements fully exploring the addition of Larry Maillet to the group. Larry brings to the group a powerful voice featuring harmonica and guitar, unquestionably one of the best singers on the East Coast. Ron, Travis, Paul and Roger the four original members of Glamour Puss are pumped with a bigger sound than ever, a sound that is more guitar driven and lashed with blues harp. The band hasn’t changed its sound they have simply become more amazing. Glamour Puss has won three East Coast Music APhoto: Gilles Landrywards, created and performed the music for the New Brunswick Tourism Department for 2003 & 2004 and is regarded as the most bilingual performing act in Atlantic Canada. Nominated for a 2006 East Coast Music Award for Blues Recording of the Year, Bluesman's Prayer is the latest Glamour Puss release. Recording in a small church in rural New Brunswick provided the band an emotional venue that captured their sincere stories while providing world-class sound quality. Bluesman’s Prayer combines great songwriting with incredible guitar playing from Travis, soulful keyboard and vocals from Roger, excellent new songs by Larry, and a kick-ass rhythm section with Paul and Ron.

Blues du Jour FLAC

Big Bill Broonzy - Blues is my Business

Size: 161 MB
Time: 51:21
File: Flac
Released: 2006
Styles: Blues
Art: Front

1. Baby please don't go (3:11)
2. In the evening (when the sun goes down) (3:25)
3. St. Louis Blues (2:25)
4. Feelin' lowdown (4:44)
5. See see rider (3:00)
6. All I got belongs to you (3:08)
7. Ridin' on down (4:55)
8. Nobody knows the trouble I've seen (3:26)
9. I got up one mornin' blues (4:40)
10. Treat everybody right (3:12)
11. Down by the riverside (2:31)
12. Black, brown and white (2:35)
13. This train (bound for glory) (3:10)
14. Midnight special (1:59)
15. I get the blues when it rains (2:43)
16. House rent stomp (2:09)

Big Bill Broonzy, byname of William Lee Conley Broonzy, (born June 26, 1893, Scott, Mississippi, U.S.—died August 14, 1958, Chicago, Illinois), American blues singer and guitarist who represented a tradition of itinerant folk blues. Broonzy maintained that he was born in 1893 in Scott, Mississippi, but some sources suggest that he was born in 1903 near Lake Dick, Arkansas. In any case, Broonzy grew up in Arkansas. He served in the army (1918–19) and moved to Chicago in 1920, where six years later he made his recording debut as guitar accompanist to African American blues singers. Later he became a singer himself, and by 1940 he was recognized as one of the best-selling blues recording artists. His New York City concert debut was made at Carnegie Hall in 1938. In 1951 he visited Europe and soon became popular across that continent. At the height of his popularity, in 1957, his vocal effectiveness was reduced by a lung operation, and he died the following year of cancer. His best-known songs included “I Can’t Be Satisfied,” “Key to the Highway,” “W.P.A. Blues,” “All by Myself,” and, perhaps most notably, “Black, Brown and White.”

Blues is my Business FLAC

Doo the Doo - Fishbone Juice

Size: 312 MB
Time: 46:03
File: Flac
Released: 2022-12-10
Styles: Blues
Art: Front

1. This Loneliness (4:15)
2. Everytime I See You Walking (3:36)
3. Baby, You And I (3:51)
4. The Honeyman Can (3:29)
5. Sweet Lies (3:45)
6. Fishbone Juice (3:42)
7. Break It Up, Baby (3:47)
8. Oh Lonesome Me ! (3:19)
9. Looks Like Rain's Gonna Pour Again (3:31)
10. Desperate Ways (4:37)
11. Why Did You Break My Heart (4:11)
12. Let's Have a Pachanga ! (3:56)

French Blues band from Quimper, Brittany. Founded in 1991.

Fishbone Juice FLAC

Tuesday, January 10, 2023

Willie Foster & The Juke Joints - Live!

Size: 180.1 MB
Time: 77:42
File: MP3 @ 320K/s
Released: 1999
Styles: Electric Blues, Harmonica Blues
Art: Full

01. Foster Shuffle ( 8:23)
02. Love Everybody ( 6:01)
03. If You Love Me ( 6:37)
04. Honey Sugar Bowl ( 8:04)
05. Going To St.Louis ( 7:23)
06. Ready For The Blues (Arr. W. Foster) ( 6:26)
07. Sugar Sweet ( 6:46)
08. Janie On My Mind (11:41)
09. Promised Me Love ( 4:48)
10. Everyday I Have The Blues (11:29)

Personnel:
Harp, Vocals – Willie Foster
Guitar – Michel Staat, Mickey Rogers (2)
Bass – Peter Van Merode
Drums – Peter Kempe
Harmonica – 'Sonny Boy' Van Der Broek* (tracks: 8 to 10)
Saxophone – Ko Zuidweg
Trumpet – Rinus Zuidweg

Recorded live at the Arsenal Theater - Vlissingen, Holland on March 17, 1999
Willy Foster was raised in the classic blues tradition, born on a farm just outside Leland, Mississippi, he started picking cotton when just eight years old, and entertained himself blowing harmonica with his childhood friend and neighbour, Jimmy Reed.

After serving in Europe during the Second World War, he moved to St. Louis and then Chicago, where he would work Maxwell Street, playing for tips, honing his skills, aided by Walter Horton, eventually graduating to the Chicago club scene where he played regularly with Floyd Jones, his cousin Leroy Foster, Snooky Pryor and Lazy Bill Lucas, before joining and touring with Muddy Waters' band in 1953. He made his recording debut in 1953, releasing the single ”Falling Rain Blues/Four Day Jump” on Parrot to be followed by a session for Cobra in 1957, which prduced ”Crying The Blues/Little Girl”.

In 1990 he was asked to go on tour with the New Zealand based Midge Marsden Band. Because of the big succes Willy would make several other tours over there in the next four years. He also did a television commercial for Foster's Beer that was broadcasted in New Zealand and Australia.

In 1994 Willy got in touch with guitarslinger Bobby Mack from Austin, Texas, and recorded with him his first CD ”I Found Joy”. Also in 1994 Willy met the Dutch bluesband The Juke Joints when performing at the Delta Blues Festival in Greenville, Mississippi. They did a short tour together and became very good friends.

After Willy's second CD ”My Life”, also with Bobby Mack, he played more then ever and was invited at the famous Blues Estafette in Holland. The Juke Joints did a Holland tour in 1999 together with Willy, which was a very big succes. This CD is one of these concerts! ~Paul J. Broussard Jr.

Live! MP3
Live! FLAC

Nathan James - I May Crawl

Size: 96.5 MB
Time: 41:10
File: MP3 @ 320K/s
Released: 2023
Styles: Electric/Acoustic Blues
Art: Front

01. I May Crawl (3:44)
02. Better Left Unsaid (3:39)
03. Before The Curtain Closes (3:12)
04. Life Changing Blues (3:09)
05. Price To Pay (3:20)
06. Moth To A Flame (4:15)
07. I'll Never Listen To You (4:25)
08. Does It Matter Where You Stand (3:52)
09. Draggin' Me Down (4:01)
10. Nate On The Mountain (3:48)
11. Tryin' To Breath (3:39)

New solo album featuring the one man band!

Nathan James is a true original American roots music artist who makes a lot of sound pickin' and scratchin' on his handmade invention of washboard guitar; stomping out time on a box made of old fence boards; all while singing and blowing harmonica to his own original music. But aside from all of these tools of the trade, his main focus is well crafted songwriting and his artistry is far from just a live show gimmick.

Drawing from a deep well of influences from many early roots artists and styles, James was quickly attracted to the individuality of self made music and artistic expression from an early age. Growing up in the small agricultural town of Fallbrook California has been influential in choosing his life path because he could relate to music originating from a rural environment. "There wasn't a lot to do here, so you either got in trouble or found something productive to do with what you had around you!" Having supportive parents that didn't force him into college after high school allowed Nathan to go straight into the real world of a ‘working musician’. At age 19 Nathan got the call from internationally known blues veteran James Harman to join his band and tour the country. With Harman is where he gained the experience that has shaped most of his own career.

In 2007 Nathan entered the International Blues Challenge in Memphis TN with Ben Hernandez and took 1st place. During his career Nathan has worked with other many well known artists including: Kim Wilson, Pinetop Perkins, Billy Boy Arnold, Lazy Lester, Johnny Dyer, Rick Holmstrom, and Mark Hummel. Nathan has brought his music to concerts and festivals in Argentina, Russia, Spain, Italy, France, Belgium, Netherlands, Germany, Denmark, Norway, Sweden, Finland, Faroe Islands, Taiwan, Canada and Mexico, as well as all over the United States.

I May Crawl MP3
I May Crawl FLAC

VA - The Unissued 1963 Blues Festival

Size: 94.6 MB
Time: 40:37
File: MP3 @ 320K/s
Released: 1999
Styles: Chicago Blues
Art: Front & Back

01. Memphis Slim With Matt 'Guitar' Murphy - Wish Me Well (3:52)
02. Memphis Slim With Matt 'Guitar' Murphy - I Wrote This Song (2:52)
03. Sonny Boy Williamson - All By Myself (3:08)
04. Sonny Boy Williamson - 99 (3:34)
05. Sonny Boy Williamson - Bye Bye Bird (3:32)
06. Memphis Slim With Matt 'Guitar' Murphy - In The Evening (4:43)
07. Matt 'Guitar' Murphy - Grooving On Bounce (3:23)
08. Matt 'Guitar' Murphy - Taking Off (4:36)
09. Sonny Boy Williamson - All My Love In Vain (3:09)
10. Sonny Boy Williamson - Your Funeral And My Trial (3:11)
11. Sonny Boy Williamson - Don't Start Me To Talking (4:30)

Personnel:
Sonny Boy Williamson: Harmonica/Vocals
Matt 'Guitar' Murphy: Guitar
Memphis Slim: Piano/Vocals
Willie Dixon: Bass
Billy Stepney: Drums

Recorded live in Oberhausen, Germany in 1963, these 11 songs feature Memphis Slim and Sonny Boy Williamson (II) backed by Matt "Guitar" Murphy, Willie Dixon, and drummer Bill Stepney.

Portions of this tour have seen previous release, but this particular show was formerly quite rare, and this CD captures some truly smoking performances, particularly Memphis Slim's rarely-heard "I Wrote This Song", and Sonny Boy Williamson's "All My Love In Vain".

But this is all highlights, really. Memphis Slim delivers three superbly swinging, strongly rhythmic tunes and a suave "In The Evening" with power and conviction, including a sizzling up-tempo reading of Big Bill Broonzy's "All By Myself" which he introduces as "a Big Bill Broonzy tune, along with Peter Chatman, the writer". Himself, that is...Memphis Slim was actually John Len Chatman, but he called himself Peter, which was his father's first name.

Matt "Guitar" Murphy is up front on two instrumentals, the mid-tempo "Groovin' On Bounce", and the equally appropriately titled "Taking Off". And Aleck "Rice" Miller does a solo "99", and a full-lenght "Bye Bye Bird" which are really good, and three gritty band-backed numbers which are magnificent.

Fans of both Slim and Rice Miller should rush to this wonderful album right away. ~Docendo Discimus

The Unissued 1963 Blues Festival MP3
The Unissued 1963 Blues Festival FLAC

Catfish Keith - Still I Long To Roam

Size: 139.9 MB
Time: 59:16
File: MP3 @ 320K/s
Released: 2022
Styles: Acoustic Blues
Art: Front

1. I'm A Wanderer (4:44)
2. Stomp That Thing (3:18)
3. I'm A Good Man (3:58)
4. Daddy & Home (5:41)
5. He'll Understand (6:17)
6. When The War Was On (4:14)
7. Louis Collins (3:39)
8. Bye Bye Pretty Baby Baby Bye Bye (4:08)
9. Cherry Red (2:30)
10. Sewing Machine (5:41)
11. Go To The Mardi Gras (7:09)
12. Cool Drink Of Water (4:42)
13. Bed Spring Poker (3:09)

Still I Long To Roam is Catfish Keith’s new album, his 21st album in a long and acclaimed career. He’s still winning awards – in 2022, he’s won the Blues Blast Music Awards for Best Acoustic Blues Album (for Land Of The Sky) and Best Acoustic Guitar. He still deserves to win them.

Catfish Keith has a unique style of acoustic blues playing. He has recorded solo on this album – a recording approach which is as simple as using different guitars across the album (the sleeve tells you what they are) and stomping his feet in percussive support; simultaneously, this is a recording approach as sophisticated as anything you’ll ever hear one man alone playing.

There are a couple of new Catfish originals on the album, ‘I’m a Wanderer, Fare Thee Well’ and ‘Cherry Red’. The remainder are versions of classics from the likes of Sister Rosetta Tharpe, Jimmie Rodgers, Blind Willie Johnson et al. I was delighted to see – to hear, to be more precise – the album includes ‘Louis Collins’ the strikingly melodic Mississippi John Hurt song which, many years ago, was among my introductions to Blues music and is still a favourite.

‘Cherry Red’, ‘Bed Spring Poker’ (what a title; actually, what a lyric), ‘Stomp That Thing’, and ‘Go To The Mardi Gras’ would also be good openers to give a flavour of the album.

But what strikes me most of all is that Catfish Keith has been playing for nearly fifty years, recorded his first album nearly forty years ago and it’s easy to forget how consistently good are his playing, his singing, his interpretations of classic blues. Consistent quality is notoriously difficult to achieve in general; in the arts it’s like finding a phoenix riding a unicorn, which is why his website pages open with “He has reinvented the guitar with great power and artistry and brings a rare beauty and vitality to his music.”

Still I long to Roam is Catfish Keith doing what Catfish Keith does – on his 21st album. You can find out for yourself how good that is as he’s on tour in the UK until the end of November, details on his website. ~Mike Wistow

Still I Long To Roam MP3
Still I Long To Roam FLAC

VA - Blues Singles Collection Vol. 56

Size: 252.1 MB
Time: 108:16
File: MP3 @ 320K/s
Released: 2022
Styles: Electric Blues, Blues Rock
Art: Front

01 Carla Mariani - Tax Money (Live) (3:12)
02 A Contra Blues - A Hole In My Pocket (3:18)
03 Mick Clarke - Keeper Of The Fire (4:01)
04 Vintage Trouble - Dare You Be Mine (3:27)
05 Robert Jon & The Wreck - Pain No More (4:05)
06 Muddy What? - Spider Legs (8:52)
07 Hendrikse - Tears (5:57)
08 Dani Wilde - You Are My Sunshine / Didn't It Rain (4:40)
09 Mike Ross - Dead Flowers (4:57)
10 Giles Robson - The Runaround (2:36)
11 Kriss The Sky - Move Over (3:17)
12 Chris Kramer - Now I Know (Feat. Jens Filser) (6:01)
13 Jenny Blue & The Tombstone Shadows - Children Go Where I Send Thee (3:15)
14 Carla Mariani - Landlord (Live At Sesc) (6:06)
15 Mick Clarke - Louie Louie (3:40)
16 Carla Mariani - Refresh Your Heart (Live At Sesc) (4:01)
17 Zoe Schwarz Blue Commotion - Exit (3:34)
18 Chris Kramer - As The Years Go Passing By (5:54)
19 Erika Baier - Snowy The Snowman (3:04)
20 Taj Mahal - Gee Baby Ain't I Good To You (3:51)
21 Fantastic Negrito - Highest Bidder (Acoustic) (4:28)
22 Alastair Greene - Wontcha Tell Me (Live) (4:26)
23 Teresa James - Taxman (3:26)
24 Muddy What? - Can't Tell A Lie (3:27)
25 Harlem Lake - I Wish I Could Go Running (Live At Culemborg Blues, 27.08.22) (4:27)

A collection of blues singles released in Dec 2022/Jan 2023 compiled by myself.

Blues Singles Collection Vol. 56

Monday, January 9, 2023

Duffy Power - Leapers And Sleepers (2 CD)

Album: Leapers And Sleepers
Size: 125,9 + 88,7 MB
Time: 54:12 + 38:12
File: MP3 @ 320K/s
Released: 2002
Styles: R&B/Blues/Rock/Pop mix
Art: Front, tray

CD 1:
1. Cupid's Bow (2:26)
2. There You Go Again (2:25)
3. Times Are Getting Tougher Than Tough (2:02)
4. It Ain't Necessarily So (2:44)
5. If I Get Lucky Some Day (2:43)
6. I Saw Her Standing There (Original Version) (2:32)
7. I Saw Her Standing There (Single Version) (2:29)
8. Farewell Baby (1:56)
9. Shake Rattle And Roll (4:12)
10. What'd I Say (4:55)
11. I Got A Woman (2:54)
12. Hey Girl (2:58)
13. Woman Made Trouble (2:22)
14. I'm Sitting On Top Of The World (2:36)
15. Parchman Farm (2:35)
16. Tired Broke And Busted (2:02)
17. I Don't Care (2:42)
18. Where Am I (2:50)
19. Money Honey (2:34)
20. Lawdy Miss Clawdy (2:02)

CD 2:
1. Love's Gonna Go (2:53)
2. There's No Living Without Your Loving (2:50)
3. She Don't Know (2:25)
4. I'm So Glad You're Mine (2:38)
5. Dollar Mamie (1:59)
6. Little Boy Blue (2:36)
7. Little Girl (2:29)
8. Mary Open The Door (2:46)
9. Hound Dog (2:32)
10. Rags And Old Iron (3:01)
11. Just Stay Blue (3:10)
12. Davy O' Brien (Leave That Baby Alone) (2:27)
13. July Tree (2:51)
14. Take It Smoothly (3:29)

For such a significant cult artist, Power's 1960s recordings have been fairly poorly documented and distributed, with the best known of them actually being mid-'60s demos that didn't come out until the early-'70s release Innovations. This two-CD, 34-song set does a magnificent job of filling in the major gap in the Power catalog by collecting both sides of all six of his rare 1962-1967 Parlophone singles in one place, as well as adding no less than a dozen previously unreleased outtakes. That's not all: There are also both sides of his rare U.S.-only 1965 single (credited to Jamie Power), and eight 1965-1967 Marquis Music session demos that were only previously available on the 1995 anthology Just Say Blue.

What's more important than the quite impressive lengths this compilation went to for assembling rare material, though, is the high quality of the music. There were few other singers exploring the eclectic tributary Power navigated in the 1960s, combining shades of blues, folk, jazz, rock, and pop in varying mixtures that never sounded forced, with vocals that could shift from croon to raunch. Power was an astute interpreter of material ranging from the Beatles' "I Saw Her Standing There" (just the second Beatles cover ever, incidentally; both the rare single and a previously unreleased alternate version are here) and George Gershwin's "It Ain't Necessarily So" to Goffin & King's pop-soul classic "Hey Girl" and Mose Allison's "Parchman Farm." Power also wrote some fine original material that was consistent with the vibes of the outside material he favored. He also used some great backup musicians, most notably the Graham Bond Quartet (with a pre-Cream Jack Bruce and Ginger Baker), who are heard on "I Saw Her Standing There" and several other songs, including Bond's own composition "Farewell Baby." A young John McLaughlin is heard on several other tracks.

There's quite a lot to dig into here, some of the highlights including the lean blues-rock of "I'm So Glad You're Mine," the unexpectedly fruity orchestral Baroque pop production of his 1967 single (an outtake from that time in the same vein, "Take It Smoothly," is actually better than the tunes that ended up on the 45), the moody teen idol pop of the previously unissued 1962 outtake "Cupid's Bow" and the 1964 single "Where Am I," and the bopping jazz-R&B of his self-penned 1962 B-side "If I Get Lucky Someday." Some of the previously unissued covers of familiar rock-R&B standards are only average, but that's a minor strike against a very pleasing, well-packaged set, complete with super-detailed liner notes that include many comments from Power himself. /Richie Unterberger, AllMusic

Leapers And Sleepers (2 CD) mc
Leapers And Sleepers (2 CD) zippy

Dr. Feelgood - Damn Right!

Album: Damn Right!
Size: 83,0 MB
Time: 36:01
File: MP3 @ 320K/s
Released: 2022
Styles: Pub-rock/R&B
Art: Front, back

1. Don't Pull Your Punches (3:35)
2. Put The Blame On Me (3:28)
3. Put Your Money Where Your Mouth Is (3:35)
4. Damn Right I Do! (3:29)
5. Take A Second Look (2:53)
6. Blues Me (2:45)
7. Keep It Under Cover (3:31)
8. I Need A Doctor (3:55)
9. Mary Ann (3:11)
10. Inside Out (2:50)
11. Last Call (2:44)

The legendary British rhythm 'n' blues band Dr Feelgood return with "Damn Right!", their first album of all original material. Up until now, the group have nearly always mixed covers with self-penned songs but for their latest release guitarist Gordon Russell and singer Robert Kane have come up with eleven new tracks meaning there’s not a cover version in sight.

Damn Right! was recorded in Southend and reunited the group with world renowned bassist Dave Bronze in his other role as producer. He knows the band better than most having been a big part of the Dr Feelgood story in the early 1990s. Drummer Kevin Morris says the album was made in true Dr Feelgood fashion – quickly: We had two days of rehearsals, then four days in the studio. The studio has a nice big room so we moved everything into there and did the whole thing in the round.

Gordon was very much the musical director with Dave and the engineer Rees Broomfield getting it all down on tape ready to mix. The songs themselves had come together with very little fuss too, as Gordon explains: "I put the tunes down and then sent them to Robert to sort the lyrics. It didn’t take long for us to have enough songs for the album." Dr Feelgood have always done their own songs but this impressive new album heralds an exciting new era.

Damn Right! mc
Damn Right! zippy

Friday, January 6, 2023

Les Blouzayeurs - Blues de lĂ  !

Size: 285 MB
Time: 43:52
File: Flac
Released: 2014
Styles: Blues
Art: Front

1. B. B. , albert et freddie (2:50)
2. Blanc-bec (3:56)
3. Mon nez lĂ -dedans (2:39)
4. Pis c'est tout (4:37)
5. Que le rose nous grise (3:54)
6. I'm Tore Down (3:42)
7. Bien sûr, c'est facile (3:35)
8. Hector a bien raison (2:15)
9. Les filles septentrionales (4:18)
10. Ma chopine (3:34)
11. Ok, tu te casses (3:20)
12. On ne vit qu'une fois (5:06)

The repertoire mainly includes original works by ZU (songwriter), but also some French adaptations of American blues (Blind Boy Fuller, T-Bone Walker, Freddie King). In addition to being French-speaking, the particularity of this duo lies in the presence of an accordion, an instrument very rarely represented in the blues. Only zydeco, a musical genre from Louisiana whose favorite instrument is the accordion, includes the blues among other musical influences. The duo's influences range from BenoĂźt Blue Boy to Bill Deraime for French blues, to Clifton Chenier and Lynn August for zydeco, and Alain Bashung (Boris Bergman or Jean Fauque) for lyrics.

Blues de lĂ  ! FLAC

Douglas Avery - Take My Rider

Size: 376 MB
Time: 62:40
File: Flac
Released: 2022
Styles: Blues
Art: Front

1. Bad Luck Blues (4:33)
2. Take My Rider (5:12)
3. Malibu Burnin' (4:15)
4. Just Keep Lovin' Her (2:01)
5. Jelly, Jelly (4:59)
6. Blind Owl Boogie (3:12)
7. How Long Can This Last? (6:03)
8. Leaving Trunk (1:59)
9. Good to Me (4:30)
10. Sonny Boy, Blow! (4:35)
11. Safety First (4:50)
12. Riding with the Devil (6:46)
13. Green Wave (3:38)
14. Looking over a Rainbow (6:02)

This enigmatic man of mystery is usually found behind his camera lens documenting today's Southern California blues scene. Here's Doug's debut release "Take My Rider". This album rides with a cast of many of the best players working today. Doug's songs, singing and harmonica playing grew on me like sweet melon in the summertime.

Take My Rider FLAC

Manzanita Blues - COBALT

Size: 217 MB
Time: 34:15
File: Flac
Released: 2022-12-06
Styles: Blues, Rock
Art: Front

1. Welcome to the Party (4:44)
2. Perfect Fake Life (4:39)
3. Give Me a Shot (3:43)
4. Good Day (3:34)
5. Wicked Woman (6:16)
6. What is Love? (4:17)
7. More Money (4:05)
8. Southern Cal Style (2:54)

If Chicago Blues, Texas Rock, Southern Swing, Funk and Country had a baby, you would call it Manzanita Blues. This six piece power house of a band packs a punch! The music floats into your ears, thumps in your chest, lifts up your butt, comes out through your feet and makes you feel happy. Manzanita Blues was formed in San Diego, California in 2017, when two of our founding members met at an open mic night and shared their passion for the blues. They had a vision of creating a kick ass blues band that would make people happy and get everybody dancing. The search for like minded players was on and before you know it Manzanita Blues was burning up stages around San Diego and East County. Playing, Don’s, Dirk’s, Wong’s, The Landing, Navajo Live, The Alibi, Josie’s Hideout, Proud Mary’s, The Barefoot Bar, The Adam’s Avenue Street Fair and became monthly regulars at Humphreys Backstage. The band started out playing covers by renowned artists and band favorites like Buddy Guy, Stevie Ray, Etta James, Lucinda Williams, Clapton, ZZ Top, Allman Brothers, Beth Hart, and everything in between. Eventually, original music started to seep into the mix. The crowds responded to favorably, so there was more to follow. In September 2020, See Through Records signed the band and in December, the debut album entitled “To Day” was born. It can now be found on iTunes, Amazon Music, YouTube, Pandora and Spotify. Manzanita Blues are now several songs into their second project and are hoping to have it out by the end of 2021. Bringing their unique brand of blues to the West Coast and beyond to put a spring in your step and a smile on your face.

COBALT FLAC

Tuesday, January 3, 2023

Dave Clark's Blues Swingers Feat. Floyd McDaniel - Switchin' In The Kitchen

Album: Switchin' In The Kitchen
Size: 139,1 MB
Time: 60:04
File: MP3 @ 320K/s
Released: 2003
Styles: Jump Blues
Art: Front, back

1. Untrue Woman (2:07)
2. How Long Blues (4:27)
3. Swing Time (4:19)
4. St. Louis Blues (3:46)
5. Cold, Cold Feeling (3:25)
6. Switchin' In The Kitchen (4:52)
7. Our Delight (4:43)
8. Caldonia (2:50)
9. West Side Baby (5:55)
10. High Stakes Woman (3:34)
11. Mary Jo (3:06)
12. What A Wonderful World (4:41)
13. Corner Pocket (3:59)
14. Spin, Flip, And Dip (4:14)
15. St. Louis Blues (Alternate) (3:58)

Although some quality bands came out of the retro-swing trend of the '90s, many of them were amateurish, and by the end of the decade, retro-swing had pretty much dried up. But that doesn't mean that's the last of jump blues, only that a bunch of young bands aren't coming along and emulating the Cherry Poppin' Daddies, Big Bad Voodoo Daddy, or the Squirrel Nut Zippers. Those who are in it for the long haul - Dave Clark, for example - are still plugging away. Born in 1955, the saxophonist/bandleader was playing jump blues long before the neo-swing trend took off and was still doing his thing after its popularity faded. Actually, Clark shouldn't be compared to the neo-swing artists of the '90s because what he does is undeniably different; while the Cherry Poppin' Daddies and similar artists played a blend of jump blues and early rock & roll (with a big dose of irony), Switchin' in the Kitchen has a more authentically '40s-like sound.

Assembled by Delmark in 2003, this 60-minute CD focuses on recordings that Clark made with his Chicago-based Blues Swingers band in 1991, 1992, and 1999. The material (some of which features the late singer/guitarist Floyd McDaniel) is quite faithful to the spirit of classic jump blues, swing, and early, pre-doo wop R&B; if it wasn't for the clean digital sound quality, one could easily assume that these recordings were actually made back when Harry Truman was president. Clark has since discontinued the Blues Swingers and moved to Los Angeles. Thankfully he's still playing jump blues, and this CD is a solid and enjoyable - if derivative - document of his years in the Windy City. /Alex Henderson, AllMusic

(For personnel details, see artwork included.)

Switchin' In The Kitchen mc
Switchin' In The Kitchen zippy

Philipp Fankhauser - Heebie Jeebies: The Early Songs Of Johnny Copeland

Album: Heebie Jeebies
Size: 89,4 MB
Time: 38:19
File: MP3 @ 320K/s
Released: 2022
Styles: Blues/R&B/Soul
Art: Front

1. Heebie Jeebies (2:39)
2. Just One More Time (2:48)
3. Something's Up Your Sleeve (2:06)
4. Love Prayer (3:39)
5. Every Dog's Got His Day (4:18)
6. Hurt Hurt Hurt (2:45)
7. May The Best Man Win (2:34)
8. Coming To See About You (2:33)
9. It's My Own Tears (3:44)
10. Well A Well A Baby (2:06)
11. I've Gotta Go Home (2:57)
12. It Must Be Love (2:55)
13. I Need You Now (3:10)

The fact that Philipp Fankhauser is once again delving into the musical treasure chest of his mentor Johnny Copeland - the singer and guitarist from Houston, Texas, who died in 1997 - should come as a surprise to very few people. On many of his past albums, Fankhauser has included one or two Johnny Copeland penned songs. What is surprising, however, is that the song «Heebie Jeebies», as well as the other 12 tracks off his new album, are all around sixty years old. Born in 1937, Johnny Copeland wrote them all between the ages of 20 and 25.

Johnny started his touring career as early as 1952, and in the early sixties had been on the «blues circuit» in and around Houston, building himself a solid career», says Philipp Fankhauser. Almost overnight Soul Music captured the hearts and minds of the the black community, and artists like Solomon Burke, Ben E. King, Otis Redding, Sam Cooke and many more, were the new stars. Blues musicians were suddenly no longer in vogue. People turned away from their complaining and whining, wanting new music: happy, danceable, with positive vibes.

Fortunately, Johnny was surrounded from an early age on by singers who sang "soulful". The gone too soon crooner Johnny Ace, for example or Eddie «Guitar Slim» Jones and of course Sam Cooke. Johnny admired them and their influences are quite clear to the listener from Copeland's earliest recordings in the fifties. Johnny Copeland began to write Soul songs of his own; short, intense pearls, without long intros and mostly without any long guitar solos. All of these songs at most, two and a half minutes in duration in accordance with the wishes of the all powerful Radio DJs of the time.

"From the huge number of songs that Johnny wrote between 1960 and 1966, I have selected thirteen. Not all of them are just happy, but they are my favorite songs. The soulful feeling of the blues, or the bluesy feeling of Soul, is also easy to discern in them. We recorded them all over a few days. Just like they did back then: all of us in one room, a handful of microphones and amps, a real piano, a vintage drum set, some nice guitars. Then: count in, play, record! What You Hear Is What We Played!"

Heebie Jeebies: The Early Songs Of Johnny Copeland mc
Heebie Jeebies: The Early Songs Of Johnny Copeland zippy

Duffy Power - Innovations (Expanded Edition)

Album: Innovations (Expanded Edition)
Size: 156,0 MB
Time: 66:49
File: MP3 @ 320K/s
Released: 1971/2022
Styles: R&B/Blues
Art: Front

1. Rosie (2:01)
2. Leaving Blues (3:03)
3. It's Funny (2:06)
4. God Bless The Child (4:13)
5. Coming Round No More (1:34)
6. Give Me One (1:54)
7. Mary Open The Door (3:34)
8. Help Me (2:33)
9. Louisiana Blues (3:32)
10. Little Boy Blue (2:26)
11. Exactly Like You (2:27)
12. One Night (2:30)
13. There You Go (2:26)
14. Red, White & Blue (2:13)
15. I'm so Glad You're Mine (Bonus Track) (2:35)
16. Little Girl (1965 Version) (Bonus Track) (2:19)
17. I Want You To Love Me (Bonus Track) (3:56)
18. Dollar Mamie (Bonus Track) (1:57)
19. Hound Dog (Alt. Take) (Bonus Track) (2:30)
20. Rags And Old Iron (Bonus Track) (2:59)
21. Little Boy Blue (1966 Version) (Bonus Track) (2:34)
22. Little Girl (1966 Version) (Bonus Track) (2:24)
23. Mary Open The Door (1966 Version) (Bonus Track) (2:41)
24. Just Stay Blue (Bonus Track) (3:06)
25. Hound Dog (Single Version) (Bonus Track) (3:04)

Duffy Power (1941-2014) was among Britain’s first wave of late 50s rock’n’rollers, a protĂ©gĂ© of impresario Larry Parnes alongside Billy Fury, Marty Wilde and Georgie Fame. In 1963, a musical epiphany saw him become one of Britain’s greatest bluesmen – an intensely soulful singer, songwriter and harmonica virtuoso whose career thereafter would be a rollercoaster of amazing recordings, off/on record deals, and periods of withdrawal before bowing out of music-making in 1973. In the mid-60s, Duffy recorded with future members of Cream, Pentangle and the Mahavishnu Orchestra. He never had any problem impressing fellow musicians, but a wider appreciation of his work would only come in the CD era.

Despite a string of lavishly produced singles for Parlophone and an attempted comeback on CBS with the single ‘Hell Hound’/‘Hummingbird’ in 1970, Duffy’s first real success since the Larry Parnes era was the result of an ‘archive trawl’ LP in 1971 – among the first of its kind for a living artist. Entitled Innovations, the album brought together a dozen unreleased recordings made between 1965-67 for his publisher, Marquis Music, including several co-writes between Power and guitar hero and Melody Maker poll-winner John McLaughlin, who had revolutionised Miles Davis’ sound in the intervening years. Other musicians on the album – Jack Bruce, Danny Thompson and Terry Cox – had since found the sweet spot between commercial success and acclaimed progressive music, while drummers Phil Seamen and Red Reece were legends of British jazz.

Released on Transatlantic Records in February 1971, Innovations caused a sensation, selling 30,000 copies and seeing Duffy featured at length in the British music press, prompting CBS to reissue the ‘Hell Hound’ single (flipping the sides). In the CD era, 10 further recordings from these Marquis Music sessions filtered out on various anthologies. This ‘definitive edition’ brings all of this extraordinary body of work together for the first time and adds the one remaining stray: a fabulous Decca 45 A-side take of ‘Hound Dog’, released in January 1967 by Duffy’s Nucleus (Power, McLaughlin, Thompson, Cox), which has never before appeared on a Duffy Power CD.

Innovations (Expanded Edition) mc
Innovations (Expanded Edition) zippy

Little Bobby - God Made Me Blue

Album: God Made Me Blue
Size: 76,5 MB
Time: 33:02
File: MP3 @ 320K/s
Released: 2022
Styles: Blues
Art: Front

1. God Made Me Blue (4:01)
2. I Feel Like Drinking (5:20)
3. Dream (3:33)
4. Just Like My Old Man (4:40)
5. My Favorite Mistake (3:39)
6. Bring Back the Old School (3:44)
7. Hold On (3:15)
8. That Ain't Right (4:45)

Little Bobby is a third generation Native American musician who has followed in his father’s and grandfather’s musical footsteps. He has carved out his own musical path performing at some of the largest blues festivals from The Chicago Blues Festival in Chicago, IL to the Rawa Blues Festival in Poland. He’s recorded and produced several albums such as Before the Storm (2005), Life of the Blues (2010) and Showbiz (2015) to name a few. He’s also recorded and co-wrote number one blues albums such as “Good Blues” (2011) by Nora Jean Bruso and “He Digs Me” (2014) by Sunday Wilde.

This album contains a perfect mixture of blues, rock, country and R&B, sure to appeal to any genre lover. Lydia Rose, a young local singer with a beautiful, soulful voice that will certainly make any listener feel the blues, makes her album debut on the title track “God Made Me Blue” and the vocals on “My Favorite Mistake”. The late Ashly Nupdal is featured on the last track “That Ain’t Right.” This song was written for her and recorded several years ago before her tragic passing.

Award winning saxophone player Maurey Finney provides that perfect smooth touch to the songs “Dream” and “Just Like My Old Man,” a song Little Bobby dedicated to his father, Big Bobby. This tune has a lot of heart and soul with a raw blue edge to it and just a taste of that ‘80s country-like Hank Williams Jr. swagger.

God Made Me Blue mc
God Made Me Blue zippy

Shaky Jake Harris - The Devil's Harmonica (Remastered & Sound Improved)

Size: 100.5 MB
Time: 42:51
File: MP3 @ 320K/s
Released: 1971/1987
Styles: Harmonica Blues, Chicago Blues
Art: Full

01. Sawed Off Shotgun (4:34)
02. Ragged And Dirty (4:52)
03. Love Is Strange (4:57)
04. Let Me Be Your Loverman (2:30)
05. Bad Luck Time (4:00)
06. My Blues Advice (5:49)
07. Family Blues (3:46)
08. What A Fool (4:14)
09. Remembering (4:46)
10. More Bad Luck (3:19)

Personnel:
Harmonica, Vocals: Shaky (Shakey) Jake Harris
Guitar: Elliot Ingber, Freddy Robinson
Bass: Larry Taylor
Drums: Phil Parker, Ron Selico
John Mayall: Rhythm & Slide Guitar, Piano

James D. Harris was born in Earle, Arkansas, and relocated with his family to Chicago, Illinois, at the age of seven. He played in several Chicago blues ensembles in the late 1940s. He also worked as a mechanic and as a professional gambler (his nickname came from a dice players' expression, "shake 'em"). His debut recording was the single "Call Me if You Need Me", backed with "Roll Your Moneymaker", released by Artistic Records in 1958, featuring Magic Sam and Syl Johnson on guitar and produced by Willie Dixon. Harris was not paid for the session, but he won $700 shooting craps with label owner Eli Toscano. In 1960, Bluesville Records teamed Harris with the jazz musicians Jack McDuff and Bill Jennings for the album Good Times. His later recording of Mouth Harp Blues returned to a more traditional blues style. Harris toured and was part of the American Folk Blues Festival tour in 1962. Throughout the 1960s Harris and Sam appeared regularly in concert together around Chicago. Harris's patronage of younger musicians helped secure Luther Allison's recording debut. Harris moved on in the late 1960s, recording with Allison in Los Angeles on Further On up the Road. He also played with other harmonica players, such as William Clarke. Harris subsequently recorded for World Pacific. He also owned a nightclub and a record label, but ill health eventually led him to return to Arkansas, where he died, at the age of 68, on March 2, 1990. ~Bill Dahl

The Devil's Harmonica (Remastered & Sound Improved) MP3
The Devil's Harmonica (Remastered & Sound Improved) FLAC

Mark Arshak - Ramblin' On / Bootleg Blues

Album: Ramblin' On
Size: 101.4 MB
Time: 43:13
File: MP3 @ 320K/s
Released: 2011/2022
Styles: Blues Rock
Art: Front

01. The Sun (5:03)
02. Ramblin' On (4:44)
03. Beautiful Child (5:03)
04. Jeanetta (3:54)
05. Smokin' Weed, Drinkin' Whiskey (4:04)
06. Elm River Blues (4:55)
07. Crazy Woman (3:17)
08. Forgive Me (4:38)
09. American Dream (3:16)
10. Mississippi (4:13)

Arshak, a resident of southeastern Michigan near Jackson, has been making a name for himself at Northern Michigan blues clubs over the past several years. So much so that members of the Mid/North Blues Society asked him to compete in their annual blues competition this past September.
At stake, a coveted spot in the International Blues Challenge this February in Memphis where the hottest “unsigned” blues bands from around the world will compete for cash and a recording contract. Blues greats Larry Garner, Tommy Castro and Susan Tedeschi were all discovered at that Challenge.
Competing against seven other bands from Michigan this year, The Mark Arshak Band not only won the regional competition but they impressed long-time blues music photographer David Fox, who served as chief judge of the competition.
“All the bands were great, but Arshak and his band performed at a level necessary to win at the next level,” said Fox. “I expect them to do quite well; they definitely have what it takes to be a big time blues band.”
The road to Memphis starts in Traverse City. The Mark Arshak Band will perform a “Celebration Concert” to help raise funds to support the band’s trip with a “Going To Memphis” show this Friday, November 19 at Streeters’ Ground Zero Nightclub.

Ramblin' On MP3
Ramblin' On FLAC

Album: Bootleg Blues
Size: 139.3 MB
Time: 59:56
File: MP3 @ 320K/s
Released: 2022
Styles: Blues Rock
Art: Front

01. Three Kings ( 3:33)
02. Sissy Lee ( 4:13)
03. Rope Swing ( 8:06)
04. Julie Brown ( 5:41)
05. Flesh & Bone ( 4:36)
06. Suicide Blues ( 8:05)
07. Lets Have A Party ( 2:25)
08. Little Bird Blue ( 6:12)
09. Evil In The Night (10:46)
10. Lemonade Boogie ( 6:14)

MARK ARSHAK- Singer, songwriter, musician and entertainer has worked across the country and overseas, performing a unique blend of originals, and original takes on classic songs from a variety of genres from the '40's, 50's & 60's.

KEVIN GALL is simply the nicest guy off stage who transforms into the toughest man who ever played bass- knowing when to drive a tune and when to lay low. Superb musicianship and dynamics.

MIKE DRAFFEN- Pocket drummer with taste, precision, dynamics and showmanship everything you would want from a drummer. He also has toured all over the country, a one time member of B.B.'s daughter Shirley King's band and full time musician who loves and incorporates all types of influences into his performance.

This outfit pays dues, plays blues, and gets down to the roots of rock and roll. A pleasure to the senses. Crowd pleasers who love what they do and feed off of the energy as they in turn give it.

Playing shows at roadhouses, honky tonks, corporate clubs, festival stages and backyard barbeques, Mark and his band have performed at many of the top venues including The Rivera Theatre & Legends- Chicago, Fifth Avenue - Detroit, B.B. Kings and Rum Boogie - Memphis, Fat Fish Blue - Cleveland and Joe's Crab Shack -Florida.
They have also performed and headlined at over 30 festivals including The Arts, Beats & Eats Festival- Detroit, The Mississippi Muddy Waters Festival- Illinois, The Madison Blues Festival - Wisconsin, Memphis in May Festival- Memphis, and Red White And Blues Fest- Ohio.

Bootleg Blues MP3
Bootleg Blues FLAC

William Marsala - The Kilborn Alley Session

Size: 65.5 MB
Time: 28:15
File: MP3 @ 320K/s
Released: 2022
Styles: Electric Blues, Blues Rock
Art: Front

01. When The Sun Goes Down (4:25)
02. Cold Feeling (4:44)
03. Chance (5:22)
04. Sweet Tea (4:33)
05. When To Quit (4:33)
06. Katie (4:35)

Personnel:
Joe Asselin: Vocals, Guitar
Noah Williams: Vocals, Guitar
Andrew Hyden: Bass Guitar
Justin Culp: Drums

William Marsala is a group of seasoned musicians who come together to play high energy shows, with the idea of bringing the raw energy of blues and rock music to life on stage. Originally formed in early 2016 by veteran players Joe Asselin and Noah Williams bringing together two individual styles of playing that compliment each other very well. Adding drummer Justin Culp in 2017 and Andrew Hyden on bass guitar shortly after, making this an all star group who shows up to play good songs and have a great time! With vast influences from BB King, Allman Brothers and JJ Cale to Black Stone Cherry, Grateful Dead and Gary Clark Jr.


The Kilborn Alley Session MP3
The Kilborn Alley Session FLAC

Venom Blues - Live At The Bank

Size: 162.5 MB
Time: 69:50
File: MP3 @ 320K/s
Released: 2022
Styles: Blues Rock
Art: Front

01. Sneak Attack (3:47)
02. Outta Here (5:03)
03. Cold Women And She's Coming Home (9:22)
04. Love Me Like A Man (7:16)
05. Dukes Place (4:22)
06. Chaln (4:47)
07. Monday (5:27)
08. Down The Road (Feat. Kitty Mayo) (5:59)
09. Blues That's Right (5:33)
10. Going Up (6:08)
11. Give A Toast To The Blues (4:01)
12. Road House (7:59)

The Mid-Atlantic's hottest Blues band performing original work. Venom Blues rolls out several sets of seriously smokin' Blues tracks that will have you out on the floor and "stompin' yo' feet". This ain't your Grandma's Blues, so come prepared to hear a little something special and don't be surprised if you get bit - by the seduction that is "The Blues"!

With the understanding that The Blues is an art form that deserves serious attention to detail, The Blues also leaves a lot of room for interpretation and innovation. Venom Blues carries that one step further into today's music scene with a bit more edge and a lot more energy. The musical dynamics and variety of styles presented at a Venom Blues show always leaves the crowd "wantin' mo", so c'mon down y'all, don't be shy.

Venom Blues was formed in late 2005 by veterans of the Delaware and Northeast music scene, who collectively, have well over a hundred years of musical experience. They were brought together by an extreme desire to rekindle the flames of the artistry known as The Blues and carry it forward to a new generation. Delaware has seen it's share of the best Blues musicians that have toured the world. Venom Blues seeks to carry on that tradition, so keep your eyes open - The Blues can strike real fast...

We'd definitely like to give special thanks to those lovers of "da blues" who continue to make every show special. It is for you, that the blues continues its dominance in the musical world!

Live At The Bank MP3
Live At The Bank FLAC

Mercedes Nicole - Constellation

Size: 126.5 MB
Time: 54:06
File: MP3 @ 320K/s
Released: 2022
Styles: Blues Jazz
Art: Full

01. I Ain't Got Nothing But The Blues (5:34)
02. Stormy Monday (5:56)
03. Rich Man Blues (3:22)
04. There Is Something On Your Mind (4:22)
05. Your Love (4:57)
06. Turn Me On (3:42)
07. I Can't Make You Love Me (6:13)
08. The Thrill Is Gone (6:23)
09. This Bitter Earth (4:39)
10. Path Of The Mystic (4:02)
11. Bonus Track (4:51)

Seattle based jazz vocalist Mercedes Nicole returns to the source for her fourth album, constellation released in April 2020. Classically trained singer I was made and roads in the Jazz scene for some time now, winning a songwriter award in 2018 and collaborating with some of the finest players in the region. Her new 10 track album is a collection of blues standards and pop inspirations played by some of the finest musicians the city has to offer. She brought the ensemble into Orbit studios in Seattle to be recorded by Joe Reineke. Keyboardist Jake Sele anchors the rhythm section supported by the acclaimed Evan Flory-Barnes on double bass, while D’Vonne Lewis’ and Brian Kirk shared drumming duties and Thaddeus “Thaddilac” Turner and Jerry Wirkkala lent their guitar skills, but the other real star of the show was multi instrumentalist Jay Thomas who played amazing trumpet, Alto, Tenor and Soprano sax on several tracks. Originator of the form Jelly Roll Morton said “Blues has always been at the root, giving the music its sprit, so any composition can be played as Jazz because it is a Style.” Nicole and the fine group of players take that notion to heart.

Opening track, the Duke Ellington standard,“ I Ain’t Got Nothing But The Blues,“ sets the tone for the session, by placing Nicole’s contralto in the middle of an easy swinging rhythm section and having her trade off with Thomas on trumpet for the verses before giving away to pleasing solos on piano and Bass, creating a very strong opening number. She then tackles the oft recorded T-Bone Walker classic, “Stormy Monday,” wisely choosing to stay soft on her delivery, avoiding the vocal histrionics often heard covers of the slow blues standard. She and the fellas then add some lively bounce to “Rich Man Blues,” “pumping up the track first recorded by Dinah Washington and Lucky Thompson’s All-Stars In 1945. Sele does double duty on piano and organ during, “There’s Something On Your Mind, “laying down sweet Hammond B3 on the old timey Blues from The Big Jay McNeely catalog.

Jerry Wirkkala from Amigos Nobles artfully layers flamenco acoustic and electric guitars on the first original track “Your Love, “co-written by Nicole, who gives testimony to her devotion. In an interesting turn of events, Nicole explains that she intended to cover the beautiful love song “Turn Me On,“ from Norah Jones as a duet with Thomas but upon hearing his lovely saxophone decided to leave her vocals off and keep it as an instrumentaL track showcasing his amazing talent. Next Nicole bravely or brazenly takes on the sensational pop Ballad, “I Can’t Make You Love Me,” wisely staying true to Bonnie Raitt ‘s original version from 1991 that reminds us of a time a century ago when all the most popular tunes had jazz sensibilities. She pays tribute to the King of the Blues on “The Thrill Is Gone,” swinging up B.B Kings most revered song, then pairs down the Dinah Washington hit,“ This Bitter Earth,” utilizing a sparse accompaniment of only piano and violin from University of Washington grad Yun-En-Liu to help her bring out the emotion Of the melancholy aria. The album closes With a track written by Seattle guitarist James Howard, “Path Of The Mystic.“ A funky Go Go beat dance number with a power of positive thinking message for everyone “to be the change you want to see in the world,” that Nicole explains in the liner notes , for her encapsulates the essence of the entire album.

Constellation MP3
Constellation FLAC