Various
Artists
"The Blues Foundation presents Blues Greats" CD
Birdman
Records
Genres: blues
BRG Records
PO Box 208
Burbank CA
91506
Nov 3 - 9 2003 |
Blues
Greats is a compilation of tracks culled from the repertoire of
the nominees for the 2003 WC Handy Awards. Compiled by eclectic
imprint Birdman Records, this is, in short, a solid collection of songs from some
really respected (and rightfully so) names. The compilation starts off on a good note with Otha Turner's
terrific "My Babe" and keeps up the quality right through to
the very end. There are, of course, a diverse selection of blues
styles on this disc, and that's all part of the fun. While some
musicians stick to the basics - like the legendary R.L. Burnside
and Perry Tillis - others mix in rock (Alvin Youngblood Hart,
Kenny Brown) and country (Precious Bryant) styles.
Other, even more daring numbers are also present -, Otis Taylor's left-of-centre blues/scat/avant-garde
piece, "Harry, Turn the Music Up," for example, is an intriguing
exploration into experimental blues.
Overall, Blues Greats is a very good compilation for blues
fans, as well as those just looking to get more acquainted with the
genre in its contemporary form. This is a very enjoyable glance at a diverse
and interesting genre.
87%
Matt Shimmer
[Vitals: 12 tracks, distributed by the
label, released 2002] |