Reviews (5)

Together for the First Time BB King / Bobby Blue Bland
One hell of a great Soul album. Every track will knock your lights out a little more than the last one did. Its constantly building up to to the finally and leaves the listener begging pleading,for more.
Luckly, there is a Volume 2 named Together Again and it too will knock your socks off. Both of these albums, totally bring the pure excitment of being at the live show. I have seen both artists on numerous occasions, and these CD's are the next best thing to being there in person.

Great joking between performers, and the Soul is that type of Soul that is dripping with grease, and like Tina Turner says, "Nothin no good without the grease. These CD"s should be sold with moist towletts included. I'm ready anytime for Volume 3. Take the hint BB & Bobby.

this is a must have masterpiece
i was 10 years old when my father bought this on 8-track. i enjoyed it then and i still do. if my house caught on fire, this is one of the cd i will try to save.

Thanks to my Mom
when i was a Little Boy My Mom bought this Record&i enjoyed it alot.not knowing that much about B.B.King&Bobby blue Bland.but the way the two Artists Connected I wanted to know more.and as time has gone on this Live Album has become one of my All-time faves Live.you feel the Fun&High level Quality all through it.this is Classic Music&alot of Fun.

A great pairing.
Two legends in the world of the Blues, who have nothing but fun as they work together. A phenominal live album, which captures the joy they share in their work.

Hard to have much of the blues listening to these men, as they weave in and out of each other's lines in classic songs like "Don't Want a Soul Hangin' Round", "Its My Own Fault Baby", and "Three o'clock in the Morning". They both know the words, and neither once cares at the liberties taken in the lyrics by the other. For this reason (and just the fun they obviously have), this is probably not the album one should purchase as an introduction to this genre.

The songs herein have been done by this pair a million times, so they each know where they want to go (and more interestingly, how to throw the other just a tad off stride). Nothing but a lot of fun, though, as these two masters kid back and forth with the other.

Singing the blues has never been this much fun. Neither has listening.

blues that make you smile
Much of bb king's stuff is "more of the same" but I can't stop listening to this one. It is a very casual and very inspired recording that is technically very well recorded. Just try not to smile as BB and Bobby try to catch each other in verses with no obvious rhyme. It is equal parts blues, soul, intimate riffs, big groovy horns, house rockin music, and down home storytelling. The interaction of these two artists with each other and with the audience is first class. Definately an overlooked gem. ... Read more

Amazon.com

Performed for a tiny audience at the renowned Pachyderm Studio in 1998, this CD is the best example of what Indigenous sound like live. While their national debut Things We Do is an excellent introduction to their music, their live shows are far above and beyond any studio recording in terms of energy and performance, as the entire band frequently takes off into 10-minute jams to mind-blowing effect. Live at Pachyderm Studio provides a taste of that, including extended versions of several previously recorded songs, as well as previously unavailable material. An item of special interest is the cover of Hendrix's "Red House"; the guitarist's influence on Indigenous frontman Mato Nanji is undeniable. The production on this album is so clear, putting it in the stereo and cranking it up might be almost as good as hearing them live. This band is addictive, and Live at Pachyderm Studio is the perfect fix. --Genevieve Williams ... Read more

Reviews (34)

I Am Addicted!
This is the CD that Indigenous fans have been calling for. The CD was recorded during the band's recording of "Things We Do' for a small studio audience. The CD represents the raw energy of the entire band. Granted, Mato is just amazing with his guitar work but so is the rest of the band. The sound quality of Pachyderm Studios also shows in this CD.

If you like SRV, Hendrix, Led Zep, Jimmy Thackery, Collective Soul, or any rockin' blues this is the CD to get! The song "I wonder why" along with "Red House" showcase the talent of this band!

One of the fieriest rocking Blues album that I have heard!
Mato Nanji's blistering soulful licks are incredible. For just 25 years old, man this guy packs the spirits of many blues legends in his fingers.

With his Sister on drums and brother and cousin rounding up the percussion section, this is one tight awesome band.

I got a chance to see Indigenous on The BB King Blues Festival, in Dalton Georgia 9-23-99

The put on a great show, it was almost a letdown when KWS and BB King came on. I was wanting more Indigenous.

Mato's and Indigenous version of "Red House" by Hendrix is the best that I have ever heard. It conjures up Jimmy, SRV, and all the best Blues Guitarist all in one package, and goes one step further. Mato's blistering licks and incredible tone from his Fender Vibro King amp and Fender Stratocaster will satisfy any Guitarist.

Anyone wanting a Great Blues LIVE CD get this CD! Besides being great musicians, these Native Americans are for real, hailing from South Dakota, they are also very involved in the rights of Native Americans. This is something we could all be involved in as well.

I can only imagine what the future promises for Indigenous. But with CD's out as great as this early in their career, we can only hope of many, many great CD's by this band.

mire mimics
I listen to the mp3 here, and believed the words of praise by other reviews and bought this CD.
The production is bad. The music and vocal tracks are flatten together. Its sounds like a gray mush. The guy sounds like SRV and sings like him too. They just don't play with the same heart and soul.

This CD mimics a great guitarist. .
I was sadly disappointed.

GREAT LIVE BLUES / ROCK CD
This is a tour de force for INDIGENOUS and specifically MATO NANJI. Great playing, good songs, great recording. I bought THINGS WE DO a while back and was debating whether the 4 new tracks alone would make buying this CD worthwhile. Don't hesitate as even the make over the other songs receive in a live
environment make them a new experience and RED HOUSE alone is worth the price. Not since HENDRIX and SRV has a guitarist sounded like this in a live gig. For my liking he sounds a little to close to his heros and needs to develope further into a style that will be recognisable as his. He has the talent and a lot of time on his side. This would be 5 stars were it not for the similar tone and style of SRV and HENDRIX.

Blues at its best
Mato is a guitar GOD. He truly ranks up there with the best of the best, such as Clapton, Beck and Page.
Just awesome! ... Read more

Reviews (3)

Fine, but not as good as their first
This is a reprise of the wonderfully successful first album these two did together. It is worth having not only for their obvious enjoyment working together, but for the terrific job in "Let The Good Times Roll".

Otherwise, this is not as good as the first effort, which I thought had much more wide range of songs. Make that your first purchase of these two.

A party!
BB and Bobby throw a great party here, beginning with Let the Good Times Roll. The beauty of this record, as with "BB and Bobby -- Together for the First Time Live" is the spontaneity of the live recording. Bobby tries to persuade BB to play some requests, a fan gets up on stage -- the fun of this record could never happen in the studio.

A very good value
I enjoyed all but two of the tracks on the original cassette I bought some time ago. An excellent version of both "Let the good times roll" and "The thrill is gone". ... Read more

Reviews (3)

Fine latter-day Collins
These performances were recorded shortly before Collins' death in late 1993, but rather than sounding tired, they offer proof that the "Master of the Telecaster" remained a commanding stage presence until the end.

Albert Collins' highly original, percussive guitar playing is still sharp, and his vocals are strong and soulful. He is backed by an excellent band which includes two sax players and a trumpet, and they offer solid backing and the occational soul-revue riff without overwhelming the 60-year old guitarist.

Collins and his band swing on the superb "If You Love Me Like You Say" and the funky "Iceman", and they groove on the eight-minute blues workout "Put The Shoe On The Other Foot".
Other highlights include the rocking "Travelin' South" and the sweaty soul of "Talkin' Woman". And listen to Albert Collins' solo on "Iceman", and his take on T-Bone Walker's classic "T-Bone Shuffle"...Collins played without a pick, and often used a capo high up on the neck of his slightly metallic sounding Telecaster, plucking tinkling, piercingly clear notes from the strings (this was the technique which gave his playing its "icy" tone).

This is a strong collection of some of Collins' best and most accessible latter-day material. It is a great place to start if you're new to the music of Albert Collins, and a must-have if you're a fan.
Definitely recommended.

THIS TRUE MASTER WILL NEVER REALLY DIE !
An album made up of live recordings in 1992 and 1993, this album serves as proof beyond a doubt that Albert Collins was very much on top of his game right up until his final days. Distilled from performances at the Montreux Jazz Festival, Switzerland and two gigs in Rockford, Illinois and Peoria, Illinois, this is a cooking set of hard-hitting blues that could raise the roof ! Bringing some of his most familiar tunes, from "Frosty" to "Iceman" and "Put the shoe on the other foot" to "T-bone shuffle" he totally sweeps the audience off its feet. Crystal-clear recording of the man who shall forever remain The Master of the Telecaster. Recommended listening !

Live with the Iceman
Albert Collins "the Master of the Telecaster" comes out in full force on this CD. It is the first CD I have by Mr. Collins and I bought it after hearing I ain't Drunk on KPFT in Houston Texas. Thanks Mr. V! Albert and the Icebreakers basically blow nearly every bluesman out of the water. Not only is the guitar great and the band great, but it is FUNNY! Who says the blues have to be sad. This is especially touching when you realize that this was his last tour before his tragic death and he knew that his time was almost up, but he still lived it up all the way. My only regret is that I won't be able to see him because he is one of the best entertainers I have ever heard. Yes it comes through that clear on disc. Buy this CD, turn up the radio loud, and don't worry about what your friends say about how lame the blues are because they probably listen to Britney Spears anyway. ... Read more

Amazon.com

Fleet-fingered fretman Monte Montgomery has quietly carved out a name for himself on the competitive Austin music scene as a poll-winning guitar hero and a must-see live act. What's more, on a scene known for blazing Stevie Ray-style Stratocasters, he's done it all with an acoustic guitar! Montgomery's first live effort, a double disc recorded at Fort Worth's palatial performing-arts venue Caravan of Dreams, showcases his guitar prowess and the popular appeal of his live band's propulsive power. Most of the acoustic rock-oriented material comes from Montgomery, as self-penned staples from his live show are interspersed with such favorites as "Wishing Well," "Whirlwind," and "When Will I" from his two studio albums. Montgomery and the band make the most of the live setting, stretching out the songs--five go past 10 minutes--with creative instrumental interplay. Montgomery also successfully mixes in a diverse selection of cover tunes, including a percussion-driven rendition of Fleetwood Mac's "World Turning" and a radically reworked, almost satiric take on Merle Haggard's "Silver Wings." TheHall & Oates hit "Sara Smile" and Dire Straits' "Romeo and Juliet," the latter the 13-minute album closer, also appear in personalized versions spotlighting Montgomery's aggressive acoustic-guitar excellence and his crowd-pleasing personality as a live entertainer. --Michael Point ... Read more

Reviews (14)

Okay recording of one of the best live performers
The recording and production of this cd fails to capture the complexity of Monte and his band. Three guys sound like 6, as carefully woven rhythms grab ahold of you until Monte shakes you up with his guitar work... when you see them live, or listent to a studio album. For some reason, the bass seems to get lost on this recording, and the guitar solos fail to cut through. Still a good cd, but could have been one of the 10 best in my collection.

I can't stop listening to this one.
I've seen Monte live several times, and have all his other albums, and this performance is as great as the sound quality. I really don't know what other folks are talking about, criticizing the mix or the performance.

And I'm sorry there is a dispute regarding the legality of this recording, but I don't get the logic that we should deprive ourselves of this great artist and his music! I just wish he would release more live material...

John

not authorized
Do not buy this cd. It is not authorized by Monte Montgomery!

Buy Monte Montgomery Live New and Approved instead!!!

Legal Schmegal...who cares??
...P>I'm not going to go into a bunch of bull about this or that. This is quality music, from his awesome acoustic to his soulful lyrics. If you appreciate quality, and by the way if that rings your bell...you do, you will appreciate Monte. Just trust me on that (and look at his ratings on all of his other CDs here on Amazon.com...that says something)

I can genuinly say this is my favorite CD.

I am not sure what all the legal stuff is about, but it doesn't affect my ability to listen to good music and you shouldn't ...either.

One of the best!
i must say i don tknow why ohter people review it so low those who gone to the live concerts by monte know that this cd caputures the eccense of his show while it might not be the same as when you actually there seeing monte bust out mind boggling riffs and tricks on the acoutic it is one of my fave cd's because it reminds me of all the shows i go to and its that nostalgia that i liek and everyone else would like even if you havent gone to one and and enjoy his music this album is a musthave for you collection monte is a trully amzing texas artist and so is this cd ... Read more

Reviews (3)

Unknown no more
Thanks to mbernocchi I picked up this CD, and I was pleasantly surprised. Living in Houston I have seen Forsyth's name around town at various venues, however never ventured out to check him out since his music was unknown to me. Man, have I been missing out!! This is truly some of the greatest stuff I have heard in a long time. Although his band has changed since this album, they still go all out. Forsyth has a great voice, plays an awesome harp, and his chops will surely get your attention too. This CD is worth every cent. Buy it!!

A hidden jewel.
If you arrived here a blues "god" must have guided you. This is one of the most unknowns "awesome" blues albums ever published in the history of contemporary music. Guy Forsyth and his band decided to go public for the first time with this live recording and the result couldn't have been better. Within all the debut albums that I know this is by far the most exiting one. Not only you can feel the atmosphere, the electricity, the excitement and the feeling that must have been pervading the venue in which this record was recorded, you can even smell the sweat, the smoke and the alcohol that must have been present in a huge quantity that night in the theatre! The energy that Guy Forsyth and his band unleash throughout their entire performance is almost unbelievable. The band rocks from start to finish in an impressive sequence of original songs penned by Guy himself and covering two blues classics: "19 Years" (a.k.a. "she is nineteen years old") a Jimmy Oden song made famous by Muddy Waters and "Mr. Luck" a Jimmy Reed classic. Guy Forsyth prove here to be, despite his young age, a very mature and strong songwriter, an impressive talented slideplayer and harmonica wizard but most of all a fantastic singer and a true storyteller. While Rich Chilleri on drums and Rob Douglas on bass provide a solid and precise rhythm section, Keith Bradley on guitar share the centre of the stage with Guy Forsyth in a real "guitar" roller coaster that will take your breath away. Guy Forsyth is continuing his carrier releasing very good album (such as "Steak" that I strongly suggest you should check out), however from my point of view this is his best effort so far. Just pick it up, you will never regret it!

One of the best voices I've ever heard
One of the best voices coupled with incredible songwriting, harmonica, and slide playing. Texas blues that not only moves but grooves. Get this along with the other Guy Forsyth CDs. Worth the investment. ... Read more

Reviews (4)

The Master of the Telecaster
Albert toured extensively during this time and the Union Bar in Mpls. was a usual stop. I was lucky to attend these shows and many others featuring Albert and his band.
His shows began with the band warming up with Casey Jones (drums) or A.C. Reed (sax) taking vocals. When the crowd was good and ready, Casey would lead into the instrumental "Frosty". After building up fury, he would announce "Ladies and Gentleman, here for you in Mpls, by way of Houston Texas, The man that cuts so deep he gets into your soul, the master of the Telecaster, Albert Collins!Albert Collins!!" With that, you would hear Albert, but not see him. He'd come into the bar playing, wringing vibrato from his Tele. Albert would then launch into any of his trademark tunes. The songs presented here are a showcase of his talent and what he did night after night.
During "Mind to Travel", Albert would get out the 200 foot guitar cord and wander both rooms of the Union, often stopping to sit at your table, talk, have a drink, and all the while wailing in his unique open-tuned and capoed solo style.
"Cold Cuts" features A.C. Reed helping on vocals, and Johnny B. Gayden's awesome bass solo. He played what we called his "Popeye" solo many times to adoring crowds.
This recording takes you back to the nights when the weather was frigid, the beer frosty and the music searing. A nicer more approachable group of musicians you won't find anywhere.
Please buy this and relive Albert's glory days. You won't be sorry.

Riffs Of Wisdom
Phenomenal and Riveting. Dr. Collins proves that he is the master of the Telecaster, and shreds all night with a sound that is completly out-of-site. Do yourself a favor and add this little gem to your music collection.

Gotta have this one!............
This is another favorite live electric blues recording. Albert absolutely makes that guitar sing. This guy should be at the top or near the top of any list of great eletric guitarists past and present. The only complaint is that there isn't more material here. Just 7 songs and about 36 minutes worth. All of it is good though. From the beginning you know your listening to something special.

..............socks

Classic early Collins
If you like electric guitar blues, this is a must-have.

All the tracks are good, but "Things I Used to Do" is my favorite. He plays the first couple of verses just like the original (Guitar Slim) version, then he really cuts loose in pure Albert Collins style. It's like he's saying, "I know where this comes from, but this is how *I* play it.". ... Read more

Reviews (5)

A Blues Legend Makes His Guitar Sing!
Albert Collins unleashes the soul of blues guitar on this album! From beginning to end this recording cuts to the listener's core, as Collins' guitar performs musical surgery with a master's skill! All of the songs are great, but the real gem is "Stormy Monday." Collins' version is simply outstanding! In this song Albert Collins truly pierces the very soul of the listener, and lifts it to a higher place! The guitar solo is breathtaking! This album is full of great music, and should be owned by every real fan of blues. Buy it now and experience the depth of a blues legend.

Explosive mix!!!
This cd is really an explosive mix,blended with the great presence of this power trio in one of perhaps, the best "Live"performances ever released.Casey Jones on drums;A.C. Reed on sax and the "Iced-hot Man" Albert Collins is really an explosive mix you must try on!!!

Blues that WILL not let you sit down
It is impossible to describe the raw energy of this CD. Don't even think of sitting down! Your foot will be tapping inside of 30 seconds flat. You will be dancing in the kitchen. The greatest legal pick-me-up since caffein. It's like stickin' your finger right into the Blues socket when your momma isn't lookin'. It feels so fun it must be bad.

Carefully save this CD for that dark, grey day when you just don't have the get-up-and-go to do what you have to do that day. Then insert this CD and crank the volume waaay up. It could save your life.

A MUST for any blues collection
This is definitely one of those CD's that no blues collecter should be without. Albert Collins' mastery of his craft shines, shimmers, and shakes in this soul-searing example of what the blues is all about.

on cd finally!!
one of Albert's very best recordings!! Having thrown my record player away about 10 years ago I'm really happy to find this CD. There's at least 1 alligator I appreciate..

Just buy this record!!!! ... Read more

Amazon.com

Nobody plays rockin' blues with more heads-down authority than the current edition of the Fabulous Thunderbirds. Still led by singer-harmonica ace Kim Wilson, whose prowess on the instrument marks him as one of its all-time greats, the band surges through this February 2000 concert at full throttle. Which means the rhythm section keeps a flat-four chug percolating, pianist-organist Gene Taylor makes like Johnny Johnson on steroids, and Kid Ramos dishes out rhythm 'n' leads with reverb-drenched efficiency, while Wilson keeps his pushy baritone thundering above it all.

Ramos dives into the old T-Birds hit "Tuff Enuff" with a solo that punctuates steely riffing with funky chords. Wilson--although unremittingly powerful--sounds best on the slower numbers like Guitar Slim's "The Things That I Used to Do" (another Ramos showpiece) and Jerry McCain's "Tough Enough." The slower tempos allow him to wrap his voice around the lyrics, stretching syllables the same way his singing harp elongates and elaborates notes. The only gripe is that this concert's tight arrangements don't give Wilson enough time to solo. As his guest performances on Ronnie Earl's newRonnie Earl and Friends (Telarc) displays, the more Wilson stretches, the more inventive and melodic his playing becomes. And Wilson's solo return to the studio is overdue.--Ted Drozdowski ... Read more

Reviews (9)

T-Bird blast
The California Geoseismic Institute must have sworn The Big Quake had hit LA when these guys hit the stage and let loose on "The Things I Used to Do." David "Kid" Ramos romps-there's no better word-on guitar behind the bulldozer drumwork of Steve Hodges, Willie Campbell's relentless bass, and Gene Taylor's cracking piano. However, it's Kim's love of singing that makes him the perfect lead vocalist: he can hold a phrase in his voice like Aretha Franklin until the dials jump on their own (check it out on the aforementioned "Things"), and there's that great baritone barrel chest to support it. Even better, when he grabs the harmonica and starts to pump, it literally buzzes like a giant barber's electric shears. Whooo, you can feel it right down to your shoes! This is what a house party should look and sound like.

Big T-Birds Sound Live!!
In this February 2000 concert disc, the Fabulous Thunderbirds eschew the raw rocking sound that made their early records sound so vital for a full band sound complete with horns and (on the closing number) female background singers. Kim Wilson, like BB King before him, obviously sees that many concertgoers want a fuller sound when listening to their music live and the additional musicians certainly provide that sound. The horns in particular have the effect of taking some of the covers, such as "Wrap It Up" and "Things I Used to Do," away from pure blues and back to the rhythm and blues roots they originated from. Kim Wilson's vocals on these tracks are fabulous, and Kid Ramos plays some stinging guitar as well. Old favorites "Tuff Enuff" and "She's Tuff" sound tougher and finer than ever, while "My Babe" takes on the full-throttle rocking power of a high speed locomotive. Fans of Kim Wilson's harmonica playing may feel a little shortchanged; "Early Every Morning" is the only harp showcase on the album, with Wilson blowing like a maniac. A glorious, if all too brief, moment of solo improvisation. Overall, the band is tight, the numbers are together, and the music features many rockable, danceable moments, even though Live, like most such discs, cannot replicate the excitement of an in-person appearance.

Sorry, but this is disppointing at best
I don't know what album the other reviewers are listening too, but it can't be the one I've got. I'm a HUGE Kim Wilson fan, I just love Kid Ramos to death, and the T-Birds have always been in high rotation in my house. But this? This is "Kim Wilson and the Contractual Commitments featuring Kid Ramos"

Seriously, if you want live Kim Wilson, get "Smoking Joint" if you want live T-Birds, get "Different Tacos" and any of Ramos' solo albums are way better than this. (And if you enjoy hearing Gene Taylor play 8-to-the-bar octaves, there's no hope for you, so buy this...)

I'm giving this 2 stars only because I like Wilson's voice, and Ramos does his usual crack job on most of it.
But T-Birds?!?? No way, man.

a boogie-bomb
I totally agree with the reviews above! This is a great CD, the sound is natural and clear, a sound not common on live-blues Cds.
Ok Kim is great as usual, but the highlight here is Gene Taylor and Dave Mathews on piano and organ, this is master class of boogie and blues keyboards playing! I love that!!!My only criticism is about the "offtune" double-bass!sorry. Anyway this is the blues, and I love it.

T-Birds great newcoming on this stelar "LIVE" performance!!!
This is undoubtedly one of the best "Live" performances released in years!!Scorched set,with clarity sound;Kim Wilson at his best;
Kid Ramos;Campbell;Hodges;and stupendous performance of this genius of barrel-house piano,Gene Taylor!!This is T-Birds as it must be,really the best blues-rock band in activity!!!
Nothing more;Just listen to this sound,and.....OHHHH!!!!!
Great revival, T-Birds,and all of your fans are happierrrrr!!!!
Congratulations to all of this Fabulous Band,specially in the person of Kim Wilson!!! ... Read more

Reviews (3)

FINALLY.....
IVE BEEN HUNTING FOR THIS ALBUM SINCE MINE GOT STOLEN IN''89''.. ITS ONE OF THE BEST IVE EVER HEARD ESPECIALLY SHADOWW MAN..

A Blast From The Past
Dont let anyone tell you that omar&the howlers are Creedence clones From the the moment the blast of omars voice comes growling out of your speakers complete with feedback you have a rare talent out of the same town as Bo Diddley and lately out of the home of rocking blues Austin Texas Crank up the barbecue ,grab a beer and invite a few friends round and set the neighbourhood alight rocking with a slab of pure swamp blues If your foot fails to tap to the beat, ring your local doctor as you must be dead. So in brief ,if swirling organs and chugging guitars combined with a voice out of the deepest part of the gravel pit are your prescription for a tonic for the drabness of life so take this with the greatest urgency

blast from the past
You could call me a completist as I have everything ever released by omar and the howlers From the first bars the swamp oozes out of the stereo speakers complete with feedback . many have compared omar with creedence but get real,he has continued and grown,they were at the end heading in a heavier track They must feed singers a diet of pure gravel with a dose of passion ,I am not a 50's style rock fan but this blast from 1987 has its roots in little richard and buddy holly. It is still timeless music that the toes tap to ... Read more

Amazon.com

Louisiana-born Lonnie Brooks is an underrated blues great, capable of dishing out swamp-rock, bittersweet melodies, and fire- breathing rave-ups. The pyrotechnics won out in this 1987 live performance, recorded at B.L.U.E.S. Etcetera on his adopted home turf, Chicago. Brooks's "Two-Headed Man" and his take on Freddie King's "Hideaway"--which bookend the CD--find him plying slick, screaming string-bends and gutsy vocals that mix back-road gravel with down-home charm. It's the latter that makes numbers like "Got Me By the Tail" and "Eyeballin'" such colorful, appealing stories. They reveal Lonnie's still-vital country roots. At times the band plays with the velocity--and ferocity--of a guided missile. But Brooks is always at the controls. --Ted Drozdowski ... Read more

Reviews (1)

Happy Louisiana Blues!
One of the most happy blues albums,this one recorded at a Chicagoan Club,reveals all of the magic of Lonnie's gutural voice and his really fast way to play guitar.The best sets are "One More Shot" and the sensational version of "Hideaway",plus the emotional"In the Dark"! You will really buy this one,and of course..... ....never will be the same! ... Read more

Reviews (1)

The best solo Texas Blues performance I have ever heard!
Whether you like hard-driving rock-n-roll or down-and-dirty blues, you will thoroughly enjoy this live performance from 1964 featuring Lightnin' and his pulsating acoustic guitar. Lightnin's unique skill with the true Texas style of blues guitar playing proves that it does not take a three or four piece band to either rock the blues or get soulfully low-down on a blues ballad. This CD has it all: rockin' rhythms, great melodies, soulful moanings, great lyrics, and Lightnin's quick country wit and interaction with the audience. After listening to Lightnin' play the opening guitar solo to "Baby,Please Don't Go" it is apparent that he has an understanding of how to play some incredibly deep sounding blues with the guitar that few, if any, modern artists are capable of recapturing today. "My Black Cadillac" and "Come Go Home With Me" are perfect illustrations of how Texas Blues have been a heavy influence on modern day rock-n-roll. On these two songs Lightnin' lays down a heavy Texas Blues beat with his acoustic guitar that is at the very foundation of rock-n-roll. In a slight contrast, "The Twister" is a ballad that also moves and grooves, but with more of a true blues than rock-n-roll feel. "It's Crazy" and "Mojo Hand" are classic examples of how the lyrics of a song can thoroughly entertain an audience while at the same time being powered by the classic Texas blues beat. "My Babe" and '"Mean Old Frisco" are medium-tempo songs with memorable melodies that you swear you know you have heard somewhere else and you know you will always remember. "Sun Goin'Down and "I'm A Stranger" are slow, mournful blues played and sang the way you always thought blues should be rendered. After listening to this CD it is obvious that Lightnin's voice and his guitar playing perfectly complement each other and blend together to produce some of the deepest, most powerful blues ever performed. ... Read more

Reviews (5)

Excellent country-blues
Toni has one of the best voices out there; sort of a bluesier Maria McKee, just a little rougher around the edges. But it's that rawness that makes listening to her studio work so exciting. This is probably her best and most definitive release to date. You hear rockers, ballads and even an a capella number. Maybe this could have been produced with more panache, but this also adds to the cd's charm. I'd advise anyone interested in roots music to grab "Swim Away" while you still can; it's a keeper.

Best in Person
Toni Price has been playing to packed houses at the Continental Club in Austin,Texas for years. If you've never heard her, you should. It may not match getting to see her in person in a smoke filled bar where the crowd stands to watch her and offers to buy her drinks, but if it's the closest you can get to it, it's worth it. Buy this album.

Sultry Texas Blues/Rock/Songster
You ought to buy this CD. Classic Texas blues/folk/rock sound. Great players from the Austin scene, excellent songwriting, excellent production, and Toni KILLS! This is the real thing.

The great discovery of the 1990's
The voice , the songs, the guest musicians-- this debut is spectacular. When you hear Toni sing you'll be a fan for life.

Heart-felt renditions in a powerful, clear voice
Though a recording cannot deliver music as powerfully as live performance, Toni's "Swim Away" album comes as close as I've heard. From the raucous "Throw Me a Bone" and "Twelve Bar Blues" to the plaintive title track, Toni delivers her heart and soul on a platter for anyone who listens. The words and the way this woman sings them is a rare treat! ... Read more

Reviews (7)

Return to form
Much has been made about Bobby Bland's voice not being what it once was. He is still one of the great ones, and if one weren't aware how truly extraordinary he once was, listening to him now wouldn't be quite so depressing. But, except for the occasional trademark phlegm induced growl he'll let out, he is still great. This CD was recorded at the New Daisy Theatre in Memphis where Bland made a name for himself. He is in good form as is his solid rhythm section. The real treat is that for recording purposes Bland and Malaco Records added a keyboard player to his regular band. They got renowned songwriter and session man Carson Whitsett, who played on several Bland albums as Malaco's band leader. Whitsett is absolutely terrific. His B-3 organ work really adds life to this concert, especially since Bland's horn section unfortunately gets worse and worse as the show progresses.

Southern Soul fans will be delighted as "Bad" Bobby Rush and Johnnie Taylor join Bland on stage. Rush is typically hilarious, and J.T., in one of his last appearances, shows what an absolute superstar he was as he belts out the Bland staple "Stormy Monday".

Among the highlights are three songs that appeared on Bland's 1961 landmark Two Steps From the Blues album: "I Pity the Fool", "St. James Infirmary", and the wonderful "I'll Take Care Of You". The band is especially tight on Tommy Tate's and Cookie Palmer's "Get Your Money Where You Spend Your Time" originally released on Malaco in 1987. Another great moment is Bill Wither's "Ain't No Sunshine". Somewhat ironically, the original was produced by Booker T. Jones, who also played on it. Whitsett, whose playing as the song ends is almost epic, replaced Jones for a while with the MGs.

All and all, this is an excellent live Blues show that holds up very well amongst the recordings of the legendary Bobby "Blue" Bland. It is also available on VHS and DVD.

Perfection...
...superlatives fail me. You just gotta hear it/gotta have it. A masterful Beale Street performance of (the classics and the 'Malaco moderns') Bobby Blue Bland and his revue. Blues you can use. Do not, do not, do not miss out...

Dreams come true
How long have we been waiting for this? Bobby Bland with his overwhelming band LIVE ON BEALE STREET? I am a blues fan from Germany who saw Bobby several times in the States, in Chicago and New York City. Bobby is without doubt the greatest blues singer and he proves this on this occasion. Johnnie Taylor and Bobby Rush, longtime chitlin-curcuit friends round the great recording up. Only negative side: Bobby, please look for a different horn section!! They are not in tune on this CD and not on other concerts. 5 stars for the atmosphere, the sound , the rhythm-section (10 stars!!!) and the star, only 2 stars for the horns. Nevertheless that' s the stuff dreams are made of.

Wonderful Melodic Bobby...Bobby....Bobby...Live on B. Street
Bobby is and always will be the greatest Man of Blues. Live on B. Street is running a close second to an actual appearance by this great and hypnotic story teller. Ain't no sunshine...Members only...all of the greatest with a little help from Johnnie Taylor and Bobby Rush welcomed but unneccesary. Bobby has the style and sound of something so soothing and warm. I recently enjoyed seeing Bobby in Mpls and he is looking and sounding better than ever before. Keep it up, hear!

Bobby at his finest- he is internally refreshing
After seeing Bobby live for the first time in Mpls in 1993 I have been hooked on Bobby- I recently saw Bobby Nov.' 98 and this album is the closest thing to being at his show. There is nothing better than Bobby live. Bobby doesn't need help, however he gets a little help on this album from a few greats Johnny Taylor - Bobby Rush. Live on B. Street is melodic, strong and soothin - Thank you Bobby. ... Read more

Reviews (1)

Aspiring Blues Guitarists Check This Album Out!!!
This album is a literal encyclopedia, and apprenticeship for the blues guitarist! There is no date listed as to when this was recorded, but Robben shows who he is this night and one can only guess what an illustrious carear he has awaiting him. He shows the importance of the minor 6th scale, and his Mike Bloomfield influence shows strongly. Jimmy Witherspoon a man who needs no intruduction, and is missed sadly today by many, displays his usual, dazzling charm, and stage presence.

Even if your not a musician, crank this one up and enjoy! Also recommend: "Jimmy Witherspoon/Robben Ford, Aint Nothin'New About The Blues" ... Read more

Reviews (2)

Simply the real thing, Omar truly is the man.
In the mid-80's I caught Omar and his Howlers at the Paramount in Seattle. This was before we were assimilated by California and now the east coast. In those days it wasn't real easy to get us fired up at a show, no matter the artist. Well, to a four fifths house Omar and the boy's showed little or no mercy. About half way through I was aware that I hadn't even sat down yet, looked around and people were litterally standing in their chairs, pumping their fists and giving reasonable facsimile's of a rebel yell. He/they blew the roof off of the joint and had us screaming for more. I was lucky enough to be able to hang out with him afterwords and discuss the awsome Austin scene including Miss Luanne Barton and Eric Johnson. What a cool guy. He even invited us to dinner. I've been looking for a cd with some of his older songs for at least 10 yrs, and finally, thank God, I found it. If you have not heard Hard Times in The Land OF Plenty and some of the others on this jewel, buy it. Now. If you've never seen the great one live, do so. As soon as possible. He is the real thing, not a pretty boy poser.

omar at his finest
I've seen Omar live in Chicago a number of times, and this album is the real deal. If you ever considered seeing him live, this is your primer. Not a bad performance in the bunch. ... Read more

Album Description

Two live albums, 'You're Gonna Miss Me' & 'Blues Is My Business', by this great blues guitarist together on one CD for the first time. 'Blues' was first issued in 1992; 'Miss Me' in 1993. Also contains the original cover art of both. A combined total of 20 tracks. 1999 release. ... Read more

Reviews (1)

For completists only
The second of these two stars is for this disc's historical value: live cuts from very late in his career; the ambience of hearing an old, probably drunk Lightnin' sweating it out with a mediocre rhythm section I'm sure he'd never met before; the (often rambling) give and take with the audience. Still, the music itself is not even remotely close to being top-grade or even average Lightnin' Hopkins. He's cruising on reputation and has nothing left to prove. Sound is mediocre at best. He plays OK, but there's little commitment, life or originality. Too many of the songs are instrumentals and the others seem unfinished. Buy ONLY if you want every Lightnin' Hopkins CD or if you wonder what he was like live at the end of his career. ... Read more

Reviews (2)

"they only made one of him"
that's how robben describes jimmy witherspoon but the same could be said of mr ford. while 'spoon's vocal talents are severely diminished here, his back up group positively cooks.

the rhythm section is tight, the B3 player (whose name obviously eludes 'spoon -"give it to HIM!") is tasty and robben is clearly inspired. he has that unique combination of intelligence, feel, tone and swing and clearly knows how to support the singer and the song. the performance is a little more measured than it is raw but robben's choices are so perfect, it's impossible to find fault. despite the game but less-than-stellar performance by jimmy w., this set delivers big time.

better the blues the better they keep
this performance by rf and jw should be listened to in conjunction with their earlier performance when rf was just 18 or so (The cd is Live and is available here).For my money rfs playing on the earlier cd is more interesting and more vital.He's never been one to play much with pentatonics but even when he does you can feel something.With jw singing its a great pairing.Now if you want to hear rf in his jazzier incarnation listen to a cd called "A Song I Thought I heard Buddy Sing" probably listed under gerry granelli.Its a score written around the Ondjaate book 'Coming through Slaughter' about the new orleans horn player Buddy....Also take a listen to Joni Mitchells great live album Miles of Aisles in which she is accompanied by Tom Scotts band in which rf is the guitar player.The most boring of the rf stuff is the recent series of albums he ahs done with The Blue Line...if you must stay stuck in the blues the best records are the first one on arhoolie which is an album rf did with his family band The Charles Ford Band (also the name of the record) when he was 17.....or try Talk to my sister which is pre blue line ..... ... Read more

Reviews (1)

Jimmy's Fusion
I went on a 6 month trip with only a few tapes to listen to and this was one of them. And man did I listen! I probably played this album 100 times, and never got sick of it. This album is one of, if not the best fusions of blues and jazz that I've heard. If you're at all interested, then buy this one. It moves from slow to fast seamlessly and old Jimmy's even got a song dedicated to his mother in the audience. Its a good 'un. ... Read more