With tracks from four albums yet-to-be-released, the first hour of last night's show was very firmly in the camp of modern electric blues. Joe Bonamassa got proceedings underway with an exuberant version of Nina Simone's hit "Feelin' Good", though his new album also touches base with a fine slow blues and a moody piece done on National Steel. Alex Fields' track showed his robust style on another decent release and on the evidence of the new one from Rene Gene Hall, I'd say they would be good fun in the live environment. The fourth offering came from Greg Ashby on a lovingly crafted project to celebrate the work of James "Yank" Rachell - what this project lacks in household names it makes up for in classy playing and song selection.
Etta James is said to be somewhat put out by Beyonce Knowles' performance at the inauguration of President Obama, the erstwhile Destiny's Child sang Etta's signature piece "At Last" - apparently without recourse to Ms James. Beyonce has recently played Etta in the film "Cadillac Records" but I do think some sort of compromise could have prevailed with a two-handed version? The cynics may point out that the film needs the publicity before going to DVD.
Odetta was due to have been singing for her friend Barack, but fate intervened last December - she lived just long enough to see him elected. On television on Friday she was interviewed about her music and her political beliefs, so I thought it only fitting that the show last night should include one of her finest vocal performances on a Lead Belly song. There were also two differing approaches in the gospel feature: one a capella from Son House, the other a lavish arrangement of Sister Rosetta Tharpe's "Up Above My Head" from Al Green. Those fabulous 88s were represented by alcohol inspired songs from Amos Milburn and Cecil Gant, and a rambunctious go at "Boot 'Em Up" from Aaron Moore and three of Muddy Waters' ex-sidemen.
Overnight I note the success of B. B. King and Dr. John at the Grammy Awards and you can be sure I'll play tracks from both on Star Blues next week. I'll also have more concrete news on those dates in June by BB with John Mayall. All being well the full playlist will be posted by eight tonight on http://www.garyblue.co.uk/ and don't forget we can do some more of the same (if you'll have me) on FM and on-line at http://www.star107.co.uk/ next Sunday at ten. Until then take care of yourself and take care of those that take care of you
Gary Blue
No comments:
Post a Comment