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BiTS EDITOR’S AWARDS 2014: TOP 50
1. Bill Blue - Mojolation
2. Zoe Schwarz' Blue Commotion
- Exposed
3. Dave & Phil Alvin - Common
Ground
4. John Nemeth - Memphis Grease
5. Kenny Wayne Shepherd Band Goin' Home
6. Mighty Mo Rodgers - Mud 'n'
Blood: A Mississippi Blues Tale
7. Arthur Migliazza - Laying It
Down
8. Dan Phelps - Goin' Home
9. Albert Castiglia - Solid Ground
10. Arsen Shomakhov - Dynamic
11. Half Deaf Clatch - The Blues
Continuum
12. Robben Ford - A Day In
Nashville
13. 68-75 Stay On The Ride
14. Walter Trout - Blues Came
Calling
15. Keb' Mo' - Bluesamericana
16. Alan Glen - Zip Your Lip
17. Bob Stroger & Kenny 'Beedy
Eyes’ Smith - Keepin' It Together
18. Chad Strentz - Shake Down
19. Danny Bryant - Temperature
20. Bonnie Mac Band - Pleasures and
Pains
21. B.B. & The Blues Shacks with
The No Blow, No Show Horns Businessmen
22. Bella Reunion - Introducing
23. City Boy AllStars - Blinded By
The Night
24. Climax Blues Band - The Official
Bootleg
25. Coco Montoya - Coco Live
26. Eddie Martin - Blues Took Me
By The Hand (Vol 1)
27. Dana Fuchs - Songs From The
Road
28. The Hoax - Recession Blues: A
Tribute To BB King
29. Doghouse Sam and his
Magnatones - Knock Knock
30. Son Jack Jr & Michael Wilde Hard Garden
31. Eric Clapton and Friends - The
Breeze: An Appreciation Of J.J.
Cale
32. Eric Johnson - Live In Europe
33. Marcia Ball - The Tattooed Lady
And The Alligator Man
34. Joanne Shaw Taylor - The Dirty
Truth
35. Ben Waters Band - Live
36. Mud Morganfield w Kim Wilson
- For Pops (A Tribute to Muddy
Waters)
37. Ian Siegal - Man & Guitar
38. Jack Harvey Roberts Band Devil On A Dirt Road
39. Eddie Martin - Blues Took Me
By The Hand (Vol 2)
40. Elvin Bishop - Can't Even Do
Wrong Right
41. Kelly's Lot - Don't Give My
Blues Away
42. Kim Simmonds and Savoy
Brown - Goin' To The Delta
43. Katie Bradley - Anchor Baby
Sessions
44. My Baby - Loves Voodoo
45. Paul Lamb And The King
Snakes - Hole In The Wall
46. Rob Heron & The Tea Pad
Orchestra - Talk About The
Weather
47. King Size Slim - Milk Drunk
48. Kaz Hawkins - Get Ready
49. Alexis P Suter - Love The Way
You Roll
50. Altered Five Blues Band - Cryin'
Mercy
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These awards are based on PERSONAL selections made by the editor of BiTS on the basis of knowledge
of the world of blues music gathered from his radio shows, from the feedback of listeners, from
membership of the Independent Blues Broadcasters’ Association and the Blues Foundation and from
participation in the British Blues Awards as a sponsor and as a broadcaster and writer.
BITS EDITOR’S AWARDS:
INTERNATIONAL ARTIST 2014
WALTER TROUT: For much of 2014 Walter was in hospital fighting for his life. He had a liver transplant and the blues world responded by
assiting with the cost of the surgery in the most remarkable way. He is selected not just for his music (the CD Blues Came Calling is as good as
anything Walter has done) but also for (inadvertenly) demonstrating that the blues vibe resonates around the world
BRITISH SOLO ARTIST 2014
HALF DEAF CLATCH. Unknown two years ago, Clatch (Andrew McClatchie) has made the acoustic blues world in the UK his own. A
relentless producer of high quality music and song, the pace of his work is phenominal. BiTS belives that he is on the verge of international
stardom. (PS: the word ‘relentless’ also sums up the PR and entrepreneurial qualities of Clatch’s partner and manager Red…without whom ….)
BRITISH BAND 2014
ZOE SCHWARZ' BLUE COMMOTION Zoe’s success in becoming a runner up in the Female Artist category of the British Blues Awards,
reflects only part of the acomplishment of Blue Commotion. The jazz inflected guitar work of Rob Koral and his (and Zoe’s) exemplary song
writing skills, coupled with the outstanding harp work of Si Genaro, to say nothing of the tightest of rhythm sections in Paul Robinson (d) and
Pete Whitacker (Hammond) put them at the very edge of triumph on the world blues scene.
BLUES GIGS: FROM EXMOUTH TO EASTBOURNE WITH A BIT MORE BESIDES - FEBRUARY 2015
01 PETE HARRIS, JERADINE HUME, JON VAUGHAN, @ THE PLATFORM TAVERN, TOWN QUAY,
SOUTHAMPTON
02 BOOGIE WOOGIE CLUB @ STURMINSTER NEWTON, ROYAL BRITISH LEGION, DT10 1DU
02 MARCUS BONFANTI @ SOUTH HILL PARK
03 STAN'S BLUES JAM @ THE THOMAS TRIPP, 10 WICK LANE, CHRISTCHURCH BH23 1HX
05 PETE HARRIS R&B ALL STARS/BOB PEARCE BAND @ THE 1865 CLUB, BRUNSWICK SQUARE,
SOUTHAMPTON
05 STEVE BROOKES @ THE PLATFORM TAVERN, SOTON
05 SEAN WEBSTER BAND @ THE FARNHAM MALTINGS
06 TIM PAYNE'S PLATFORM POSSE @ THE PLATFORM TAVERN, SOTON
06 PETE HARRIS, JERADINE HUME, JON VAUGHAN, FOC'S'LE FOLK CLUB, RICHMOND
INN, 108 PORTSWOOD RD, SOUTHAMPTON SO17 2FW
06 PAUL LAMB & THE KINGSNAKES@ ARLINGTON ARTS CENTRE, NEWBURY RG14
3BQ 8PM £12
06 RIVERSIDE BLUES BAND @ THE KING RUFUS, ELING HILL, TOTTON,
SOUTHAMPTON
SO40
9HE
BLUES
07 THE BLACK KAT BOPPERS @ THE PLATFORM TAVERN, SOTON
R A D IO
07 RIVERSIDE BLUES BAND @ THE CRICKETERS, 41 WINDHAM ROAD,
LISTIN
GS
SPRINGBOURNE, B'MOUTH BH1 4RN
07 WILL WILDE BAND @ DORCHESTER ARTS, SCHOOL LANE, THE GROVE,
DORCHESTER, DORSET, DT1 1XR
08 BLUES JAM @ THE WHITE HART, WOODBURY, DEVON, EX5 1HN
09 BLUES AT THE BRIDGE @ THE BRIDGE INN, TOPSHAM, OPEN MIC: ACOUSTIC ONLY. DOORS 8.15
FOR 8:30 CLOSE 10:30. FREE FOR ALL INCLUDING LISTENERS
11 PETE HARRIS & HUGH BUDDEN @ THE THOMAS TRIPP, WICK LANE, CHRISTCHURCH
12 MATT WOOSEY @ THE PLATFORM TAVERN, SOTON
12 ROBIN BIBI BAND & SPECIAL GUESTS AT THE FARNHAM MALTINGS
13 PETE HARRIS BLUES BAND @ THE PLATFORM TAVERN, TOWN QUAY, SOUTHAMPTON
FOR BLUES
RADIO
13 STEAMER @ THE ROEBUCK, KINGSMEAD, WICKHAM PO17 5JD
14 JO LONG AND THE PURE DROP @ THE PLATFORM TAVERN, TOWN QUAY, SOUTHAMPTON
14 PETE HARRIS, JERADINE HUME, JON VAUGHAN @ THE SHAKESPEARE, HENRY ST. TOTTERDOWN,
BRISTOL BS3 4UD
15 PETE HARRIS, JERADINE HUME, JON VAUGHAN, THE STAR AND DOVE, 75-78 SAINT LUKE'S RD.
BRISTOL BS3 4RY
4-6.30 PM
15 RIVERSIDE BLUES BAND @ THE LORD NELSON, POOLE QUAY BH15 1HJ
18 STAN'S BLUES JAM @ MARSHALS, 74 LONDON RD, SOUTHAMPTON SO15 2AJ
19 FEDORA CAFE @ THE PLATFORM TAVERN, TOWN QUAY, SOUTHAMPTON
19 PETE HARRIS, JERADINE HUME, JON VAUGHAN, @ THE RISING SUN, SHORE RD. WARSASH
19 STU LARSEN @ THE BROOK, SOUTHAMPTON SO17 3SD
20 PETE HARRIS R&B ALL STARS @ THE BENT BRIEF, LODGE RD. SOUTHAMPTON
20 THE PRODUCERS @ BARRINGTON CENTRE THEATRE, FERNDOWN, DORSET. BH22 9TH,ADV TICKETS
£12.50 FROM BOX OFFICE 01202 894858
21 MJ WHIPROUND @ THE PLATFORM TAVERN, TOWN QUAY, SOUTHAMPTON
21 THE PETE HARRIS BLUES BAND @ THE WHEATSHEAF, BOTLEY RD. SHEDFIELD, NR. WICKHAM, HANTS.
21 RIVERSIDE BLUES BAND @ THE BRICKLAYERS ARMS, WIMPSON ROAD, MILLBROOK, SOUTHAMPTON
SO16 4QD 8.30PM
21 THE SELECTER @ THE BROOK, SOUTHAMPTON SO17 3SD
24 BLUES AND FOL JAM @ THE PLATFORM TAVERN, TOWN QUAY, SOUTHAMPTON
25 STAN'S BLUES JAM 2 @ THE OWL'S NEST, 196 CHRISTCHURCH ROAD, WEST PARLEY, FERNDOWN,
BOURNEMOUTH BH22 8SS FREE ENTRY
26 SONS OF THE DELTA @ THE PLATFORM TAVERN, TOWN QUAY, SOUTHAMPTON
26 DEVIL DRIVES, JUMP 66 AND GEOFF GARBOW BLUES BAND A@ THE FARNHAM MALTINGS
27 CHAD STRENZ & THE CHADALACS @ THE PLATFORM TAVERN, SOTON
27 PETE HARRIS BLUES BAND @ THE KING RUFUS, ELING HILL, TOTTON, SOUTHAMPTON S040 9HE
27 DREADZONE @ THE BROOK, SOUTHAMPTON SO17 3SD
28 PETE HARRIS, JERADINE HUME, JON VAUGHAN, THE CROWN, 2 THE SQUARE, ALDBOURNE, WILTS.SN8
2DU
28 THE BRITISH BLUES ALL-STARS! @ THE BARN @ SQUARE+COMPASS, WINDMILL HILL, NR ILMINSTER,
SOMERSET. SAT NAV - TA19 9NX 01823 480467
28 JOHN COGHLAN'S QUO @ THE BROOK, SOUTHAMPTON SO17 3SD
Listings are provided as a guide only. Don’t forget to check the venue before you leave home to ensure that the gig is still on. The listing here is far from complete, so
check out www.bluesinthesouth.com too as that is updated all the time: LAST DATE FOR MARCH 2015 is 10th FEBRUARY 2015
FORUM - THE STATE OF THE BLUES
For the last couple of months, BiTS has been running discussion about the state of the Blues in the UK Click HERE to see
the original comments.
We have received this from a ‘Blues Fan’
I must agree with both Stan and Phil, possibly hundreds of others too. I've been involved in the music scene since
1963 which officially makes me an antique! When I began, I was singing what was then termed rock and roll - in
fact it could've also been listed as rhythm & blues (not that which is classed as R&B today) as the two styles were
so closely linked as to almost be one. During that year I heard Sonny Boy Williamson (Rice Miller) for the first time,
it was then that I immersed myself fully into what some of us consider to be blues - searching out more and more
'blues' from Chicago, Houston, Memphis, Mississippi and Louisiana... and then the west coast. Every one of the artists
I listened to could easily be classed as a blues artist, my record collection grew and grew as did my library, I listened,
read and studied - not just about the music, but about the people, their culture and the way many had to live. So you
could say I know some blues when I hear it.
I've also been lucky enough through the years to work with a whole bunch of 'blues' artists - learning from them
first hand. It was through talking with these people that my eyes were opened somewhat.... and here's the kicker,
better sit down..... the majority of these 'blues' artists play pop music too. That's right. On one occasion Mojo Buford
asked the band if we knew "Billie Jean" (Michael Jackson hit). Phil Guy (and other Chicago based players) told me
that in the neighborhood bars, they'd play pop music, soul ballads and even a little rock and roll until around two
in the morning - from then on it would be strictly blues!!! It was essential for them to play the hits of the day to
secure their gigs.
O.K; what about the old country blues players. Yep, they're involved too. Most will include Gospel songs, ragtime
pieces and waltz tunes, however, they can still classed as blues players.
Somewhere around the early 1980's, a few rock bands - before they were known as 'heavy metal' - began to include
a couple of old warhorses in their set, generally "They Call It Stormy Monday" and more than likely "Hoochie Coochie
Man" which enabled them to gain a few extra dates in blues based venues. It became even more problematic after
the release of 'The Blues Brothers' movie, as most of the musical content was what I'd class as soul music....... are
you keepin' up with all this??? I well remember arriving at a gig and the promoter asking me why we weren't wearing
pork pie hats and wearing shades, oh, and "when are the sax players getting here"?!
So you see, to those who'd not actually heard the real thing - all this stuff was accepted as 'blues', therefore, when
a blues band or artist began to play, people would complain and ask "what kind of music is this"? Total confusion
- and it's just as bad today.
Since including Gospel music, soul ballads and a little rock and roll into my set - which still features a fair amount
of blues, the name of the band no longer has the 'blues' tag.... not that I'm expecting any gold stars for this change,
but I just don't want to con anybody. There are far too many acts jumping on the 'blues' wagon... as has been noted
- jazz, rock, metal and, weirdest of all, loads of pop singers who - apparently have "always had the blues in my blood".
So, to sum up then, in my extremely humble opinion... If a blues artist plays material other than blues in their set they are still a blues artist. As for jazz, pop, rock, heavy metal, reggae, classical, music hall, comedians, film stars
and other actors, stick to what you know - and probably do better. Leave the blues alone, there's room out there for
everyone and for all the various styles of entertainment without you having to steal someone else's livelihood.
A Blues Fan
How do you feel about this? Email your thoughts to [email protected]’s have a debate
OBITUARY: WILLIE "POPSY" DIXON, DRUMMER AND VOCALIST OF
ACCLAIMED SOUL/BLUES BAND THE HOLMES BROTHERS, 1942 - 2015
Willie "Popsy" Dixon, drummer and vocalist of the critically acclaimed soul/blues band The Holmes
Brothers, died in Richmond, Virginia on Friday, January 9. He had
recently been diagnosed with stage four bladder cancer. He was 72
years old.
Dixon, born in Virginia Beach, Virginia on July 26, 1942, was celebrated
for his soaring, soulful multi-octave vocals and his driving, in-the-pocket
drumming. He first met brothers Sherman and Wendell Holmes at a New
York gig in 1967. Dixon sat in with the brothers and sang two songs.
"After that second song," recalls Wendell, "Popsy was a brother." They
played in a variety of Top 40 bar bands until 1979, when the three officially
joined forces and formed The Holmes Brothers, which The New York
Times described as "deeply soulful, uplifting and timeless." They toured
the world, releasing 12 albums starting with 1990's In The Spirit on
Rounder. Their most recent release is 2014's Brotherhood on Alligator.
Dixon first played the drums when he was seven. He told Blues On Stage, "My mom and dad took me
to the store and told me to get anything I liked. There was this tiny red drum set, with a tiny little kick
drum and snare...little cymbals. Now, that's what I wanted! By the next morning, the thing was in the
trash can. I beat it all to death. But, I tell you what...I knew how to play after that. I just knew. I had
the rhythm down pat and had timing too. Just that fast. I been playing ever since."
The Chicago Tribune described Dixon's voice as "otherworldly...a gift to the world of music." Living
Blues said, "Popsy’s voice is a wonder...spontaneous and raw."
In September 2014, The Holmes Brothers
were honored with a National Endowment For The Arts National
Solomon Burke
Heritage Fellowship, the highest honour the United States bestows upon its folk and traditional artists.
Dixon is survived by daughter Desiree Berry and
longtime partner Isobel Prideaux.
Funeral service information
family plot in Saluda, Virginia
Interment will be at the Holmes'
is
pending.
Award-winning British songwriter, Ian Siegal, is set to release One Night In Amsterdam, his first full-band live album on CD and vinyl
on March 9th. Released by Nugene Records, the new album dovetails with Siegal’s nationwide March UK tour which kicks off at the
Chester Live Rooms on March 17th. And includes one gig firmly in the BiTS area. Fans can pre-order the limited edition vinyl version
of the album by clicking here.
While Siegal s 2014 album Man & Guitar showcased the award­winning British songwriter as a solo acoustic troubadour, One
Night In Amsterdam flicks the power switch, marking Siegal s first live album with a full­throttle electric band. Chalk up another first
for the man that Mojo called, “One of the most innovative, gifted and engaging blues performers on the planet today.”
Siegal is able to draw on an astonishing eight-album catalogue that has scored him seven British Blues Awards in five categories
(he’s also the only Brit ever to receive two nominations at the U.S. Blues Music Awards). The bar for Siegal’s live albums has been
set sky-high by Man & Guitar recently crowned Blues Album of the Year by Mojo. From the opening notes of One Night In Amsterdam,
it’s clear he’s up for the challenge. The new album will include a free bonus track Hard Pressed unlocked via a download key available
on release day, March 9th. CLICK THE IMAGE OF IAN BELOW TO SEE A VIDEO ABOUT THE MAKING OF THE NEW CD.
IAN SIEGAL - MARCH 2015 UK TOUR DATES
Chester Live Rooms
Tuesday 17 March
Glasgow Stereo
Wednesday 18 March
Aberdeen Jazz Festival
Thursday 19 March
Harrogate Ripley Blues
Friday 20 March
Derby Flowerpot
Saturday 21 March
Scarborough Top Secret Blues Festival
Sunday 22 March
Newcastle Cluny
Tuesday 24 March
Bolton Railway
Wednesday 25 March
Bristol Tunnels
Thursday 26 March
Norwich Arts Centre
Friday 27 March
London Jazz Cafe
Saturday 28 March
Southampton Talking Heads
Sunday 29 March
NEW ORLEANS, LA @ NIGHT
BOOK REVIEW: HUEY "PIANO" SMITH AND THE ROCKING PNEUMONIA
BLUES by John Wirt
This book is liable to make you extremely angry, more so if you're a musician. However, the first fifteen
chapters provide a glimpse into the once vibrant and colourful New Orleans music scene of the fifties
and early sixties. Some great anecdotes from many who were there at the time, including Earl King,
Bobby Marchan, Gerri Hall, Dr. John and Huey
Smith himself, the composer of such classics as
"Don't You Just Know It", "High Blood Pressure",
"Sea Cruise" and of course, "Rocking Pneumonia
And The Boogie Woogie Flu"
It's a well written account that sits quite comfortably
alongside Rick Coleman's 'Blue Monday: Fats
Domino and The Lost Dawn Of Rock & Roll' and
'Ernie K. Doe The R&B Emperor Of New Orleans'
by Ben Sandmel.
Chapters sixteen to twenty two are taken up with the
numerous court cases regarding the legal ownership
of Huey's songs and how the system appears to have
'screwed' him at every step. These sections include
actual word by word accounts of said court
proceedings.... it's here that events appear to be
almost unbelievable, although reading through the
court transcripts can be slightly wearing, it's worth
doing so. You may find your anger slowly building,
as I did, back in the previous chapter or two!
Unless there are unreported or unknown reasons as
to why Huey Smith has been treated so appallingly,
then all I can say is that the U.S legal system leaves
much to be desired.
That said, certain 'record company people' seem to be as much to blame in Huey's misfortunes, if what
we read here is so. Maybe the whole situation revolves around a long ago misunderstanding? Who
knows? You'll need to read this book before you decide.
Bob Pearce
· Paperback: 294 pages
· Publisher: Louisiana State University Press (24 Mar. 2014)
· Language: English
· ISBN-10: 0807152951
· ISBN-13: 978-0807152959
Amazon Price £15.44 (http://www.amazon.co.uk/Piano-Smith-Rocking-Pneumonia-Blues/dp/0807152951)
THE BITS INTERVIEW - DAVE SAUNDERS:
I am proud to have met some of the last representatives
of 1920s and ‘30s blues musicians .
O
ne of the hardest working musicians along the south coast is Mr Dave Saunders who by his own
admission has ‘been at it for years’. His principle instrument is the bass and he has worked over
the years with bands supporting visiting US blues musicians like the great harp man Mojo
Buford; as a founder member of The Producers; as bass player for (Stomping) Dave Allen; as the
promoter of events under the aegis of Mojo Productions, his
own agency (with Harry Skinner) and as the bass man for Bill
Sheffield from Atlanta, GA, renowned for his stories in song,
on his (Bill’s) far too infrequent visits to the UK. Ian
McKenzie talked to Dave
Dave became interested in music because his father played in a
jazz band and “the first thing I saw every morning when I woke
up was my dad’s drum kit in my bedroom. Strangely although my
dad played saxophone, there was not a lot of music around the
house. There were some old 78(rpm) records around most of
them dance music, but most of the time I used to listen to my
cousin’s record collection. He had a collection, which he was
very, very proud of, of Elvis and Buddy Holly records and other
stuff which I loved to listen to. I used to listen to my cousin’s
records rather than the dance music.” Like many youngsters in
that era, his music came from Radio Luxembourg “under the bed sheets”.
Not surprisingly perhaps, Dave started his musical career as a drummer. “My dad taught me to play the drums, “
Dave told me, “So I was in and out of various clubs by the time I was eleven or so! I didn’t start on the bass
until I was about seventeen or eighteen.”
When Dave started to play the bass he was already listening to the likes of Muddy Waters and Howling Wolf,
though the introductions provided by The Rolling Stones. This was around 1966 or ‘67, so not quite into the
psychedelic era . But,” he says “ the excitement of the British Blues Scene got me. I knew I wanted to be part
of it.”. Dave was in a band at that time and considers that an apprenticeship. As noted in the introduction Dave
was in the internationally renowned band The Producers and considers his work with them the highlight of his
career as a professional musician. “The Producers tours,” he told me, “ were some of the high spots. We did
tours in Australia and New Zealand and Harry (Skinner guitarist and front man of the producers) and I went to
the states to play in the Atlanta Blues Festival and we met a number of blues musicians while we were there,”
Another high spot, Dave told me, was when the band were
the opening act in a number of gigs when Peter Green
(“one of my all time guitar heroes” ) returned to the music
scene in about 1971/72, after 25 years of ill health.
“When he first came out of retirement he was enthusiastic
and it was great to hear him play again, Unfortunately
after a couple of years, it all started to fade away again.”
This was before the Splinter Group (Green’s band with
Nigel Watson and Cozy Powell) and well before he
became ill again. “When he first came back and the
interest and enthusiasm was there, it was wonderful to
hear him play again and I saw grown men cry! But…he is
a frail man. A couple of years later and it was essentially
all over.”
Dave met Harry Skinner when the latter was playing in a progressive rock band called Manitou and “I had this
idea that I wanted to have a blues band. I heard Harry playing this rock-style stuff and I went and spoke to him
and we decided to get together to see what happens, whether things workout. They did!” The band was hugely
popular around the country, winning the ‘Blues Band of the Year’ award 4 times, releasing 7 CD albums one of
which ‘Ain’t No Love in the World’ was nominated for the ‘Best Blues Album’ award..
Although doing the circuit with the Producers was a full time effort, Dave and Harry went to the USA on tour
with Bill Sheffield (former singer with Roy Buchanan and himself an accomplished finger picking guitar
player) One night in Atlanta GA, in a club called Blind Willies., “one of the McCoy’s came in followed by
Chuck ‘Stoop Down’ Willis dressed all in red and George Thorogood dressed in snakeskin. The night featured
Ray Drury,
Harry Skinner,
Biff Smith, Dave Saunders
me and the others playing “Hang On Sloopy’, ‘Stoop Down’ and ‘Bad To The Bone’ with the original artists!”
The band has played with Delbert McClinton, and Harry is proud to have met (in 2008) the likes of Beverly
‘Guitar’ Watson and Cora May Bryant (now deceased) the daughter of Curley Weaver and of seeing the last
ever gig by Frank Edwards who passed away two days later in the back of a car which was taking him home
from a recording session.
The Producers have opened for Taj Mahal, Dr John, Joe Louis Walker, Luther Allison and the blind Canadian
artist Jeff Healey and the band was the backing band for Mojo
Bruford (one of Muddy Waters’ harp men) on Bruford’s last
full tour of the UK. The band has made a number of albums, the
latest of which is London Blues, which was released in 2011.
Are there any plans for a new one? “Well, we are talking about
doing another acoustic album. We did one some time ago and
that is still selling well and quite a few of the gigs we do these
days are acoustic.”
So how does Dave sum up his life in the blues? “I am proud to
have met some of the last representatives of 1920s and ‘30s
blues musicians ..I have been on stage with some great
musicians, and I am still enjoying myself,” Dave ends with a
sage word of advice to young people contemplating a life in the
blues. “You won’t get rich,” he says, “But you’ll always have a
story to tell!”
www.mojopromo.co.uk
www.producersbluesband.co.uk
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EMPIRE ROOTS BAND
Music From the film Harlem Street Singer
Acoustic Sessions Recordings: ASC 220
Fabulous album of raw roots music with strong, driving guitar-led punch from New York master, Woody Mann, this
release is a first - hopefully not a last - from a marvellous ad-hoc outfit who
come together to re-interpret the music of legendary New York acoustic bluesgospel man, the Rev Gary Davis. There is also a scattering of originals in the
stew.
Mann is largely responsible, as co-producer, for the recent/current documentary
film based on the life of Davis, and the film and album title comes from one of
the late Rev's finest albums, 'Harlem Street Singer.' Woody Mann is a former
guitar student of Davis's from the 1960s, a guy who certainly knows the man and
his music better than most. He has also played and recorded with other huge
former blues-men including Son House and Bukka White back in the day.
On this excellent release he is supported by Dave Keyes on piano (ex-Bo
Diddley, Odetta, Gladys Knight, Lou Rawls, etc); Brian Glassman, Bass (ex-Kenny Burrell, Lionel Hampton etc);
and Bill Sims Jr, (Heritage Blues Orchestra) vocals. The overall result here sparkles with the very essence of Gary
Davis and his positively enormous, undiminished contribution to blues and gospel music worldwide.
www.harlemstreetsinger.com
Iain Patience
ERNIE HAWKINS
Monongahela Rye
Corona Music: 70651
This marks the first release from Pittsburgh picker Ernie Hawkins in some years. 13 tracks of superb Piedmont
picking with forays into straight southern blues styles and some surprising
additions with a positively jazzy undercurrent.
WC Handy's original version of 'Hesitation Blues' is included together with
Blind Blake's 'Too Tight', Jelly Roll's 'State and Madison'; Bill Broonzy's
'Stovepipe Stomp' and Hoagy Carmichael's 'Rockin' Chair'. Two real surprises
include 'Red, Red, Robin' and 'What A Wonderful World'. An eclectic mix that
reflects Hawkins' personal interests and passion for cross-genre material. this
album also highlights this guy's sheer class and skill.
A former student of Rev Gary Davis in 1960s New York, Hawkins is always
drawn to his late mentor's music and here turns his hand to one of Davis' most
popular instrumentals: 'Catfish' is acknowledged by Hawkins' as widely known by Stefan Grossman and others - as 'Rag/Blues In C'.
Now touring and recording with Maria Muldaur at times, Hawkins is a master of
most US acoustic blues/gospel guitar styles and can switch effortlessly between
styles and genres at the proverbial drop of a hat. It's good to hear a fresh offering from this monumentally talented
musician. Highly recommended release.
www.erniehawkins.com
Iain Patience
GEORGIE BONDS
Stepping Into Time
BGB Music
Where has this guy been? It may be better not to ask that question, but let’s be glad he’s here now. Given that much
modern blues consists of over-long, meandering guitar solos it is so-o-o good to
encounter a real blues singer; why, he even opens with an a capella ‘St. James
Infirmary’ and it’s not just to make for a different introduction, it works. He
follows this up with a raw sounding down-home blues, ‘The Blacksmith’, a rather
nice double-entendre number that may draw its inspiration from Georgie’s 14
years shoeing horse but that ain’t what he’s singing about (oh, and do let the CD
run on after the end of the listed tracks). He does tackle some soul material, as on
the plaintive, southern styled ‘Calling Your Name’, but more frequently he is
handling hard, modern sounding blues, with intelligent and socially relevant lyrics
( take a listen to the slow blues of ‘Out Of The Fryin’ Pan’ for a good example).
The backing is excellent and always on the button (and yes, there’s some
excellent guitar work from Neil Taylor and occasionally Harry Jacobson – they keep to the point. Georgie was
mentored by Sonny Rhodes and it shows; he released his first album in 2001 and it completely passed me by. Now
I’m going to have to track it down and hope it is as good as this excellent set.
(www.georgiebonds.com)
Norman Darwen
DONALD RAY JOHNSON
These Blues: The Best Of Donald Ray Johnson
Mar Vista MV7
When blues great Phillip Walker toured Britain around 1993, I spoke to his excellent drummer, one Don Johnson, who
told me he was a recording artist – I think this may be the same guy (he is ED. See
http://www.donaldray.com/), as he lists working with Phillip, and other well-known
California blues performers such as saxman Joe Houston, Big Mama Thornton,
Lowell Fulson and Percy Mayfield among others, after being part of award winning
disco group A Taste Of Honey around the end of the 70s. This set draws on material
he recorded whilst living in Canada, where he moved in 1989 and recorded six
albums. It is a solid blues set for the most part, a mixture of (mostly) original blues
numbers and borrowed items such as George Jackson’s fine and popular southern
soul;/ blues ‘Last Two Dollars’ and perhaps more unexpectedly ‘Always On My
Mind’, yes, the number associated with Elvis – I have to admit it’s not a favourite
though! Tough drawn from album tracks, the whole sounds very much like a selection of (very good) West Coast blues
singles from the last 40 years or so, and in my book, that is a recommendation in itself!
Norman Darwen
FO’ REEL
Heavy Water
independent
www.foreelband.com
Do you recall the days when The Meters ruled New Orleans with their brand of slippery funk, with Leo Nocentelli’s
bluesy guitar enjoying a large role? Crescent City four-piece Fo’ Reel obviously
do. Take a listen to the title track if you need convincing – even the drum sound is
spot on, and we have the bonus of veteran N’Awlins soul man C.P. Love on vocals.
Mind you, much of the set consists of lively blues numbers, and C.P. also handles
tracks like ‘Breaking Up Somebody’s Home’ and the straight blues of ‘Leave Your
Love Alone’ with ease, riding over the beat in time-honoured fashion. Luther
Allison is also an influence judging by the excellent renditions of his ‘What’s Going
On In My Home’ and ‘Just As I Am’. Most of the numbers are originals though,
often written by guitarist/ bandleader Mark Domizio. The collective experience of
this band (regular members not yet mentioned include keyboards player Johnny
Neel and bassist David Hyde, since replaced by Davis Barard) ranges from Fats Domino to Buddy Guy and The Allman
Brothers. It shows too, on this excellent, totally enjoyable CD.
Norman Darwen
AARON BURTON
All Night Long
Autoprod
All Night Long is Texan Burton's sixth release to date and features his usual mix of drawling southern vocals with
some fine understated guitar fretwork. Here he is joined by two musical buddies, 'Stomping' Bill Johnston on Harp
and Dirk Cordes on Skins.
Mostly self-written, material also includes Charlie Patton's 'Pony Blues' together
with a Willie McTell cover of 'Statesboro Blues'. The 14 tracks that make up the
album are delivered with Burton's trademark laid-back style and sensitivity.
Always soulful, the tempo is varied giving the whole a satisfying overall feel
and vibe.
Having played a few gigs in Europe (France) last year in 2014, his first gigs
outside the USA, Burton is now targeting his launches at a UK and Europe-wide
audience with considerable success; this album has already featured widely on
UK blues radio playlists in recent months, gaining a well-deserved growing
fanbase and interest for the guy and his music. Burton is clearly hungry, hoping
for success and record sales in the European blues arena and the wider global market.
With this latest release he might just have produced the goods to carry him onto a wider world stage.
www.aaronburton.net
Iain Patience
NEXT MONTH’S BiTS WILL INCLUDE AN INTERVIEW WITH AARON BURTON (Ed)
T.ROGERS
Simple Life
Autoprod
Eleven tracks of quality blues from a Hungarian band here. Tempo varies with a good range of standards and selfwritten material. Overall, this production is polished and poised, with popular
US acoustic blues giant Keb Mo also adding his weight on vocals and steel
slide guitar on one of his own spotlight tracks, 'Angelina.'
This is the fourth release from this outfit who will feature at the 2015 European
Blues Challenge later this year. There's some seriously good Harp-work in the
mix, notable on the old Elmore James standard 'It Hurts Me Too', where the
fretwork also rips along loud and proud.
For me, the surprise with this album comes from its genesis in Hungary and the
involvement of Keb Mo in the project. But, as band frontman and composer of
most tracks, Ferci Kovacs admits, Mo has been a major influence on his own
musical journey and he is delighted to have him guest on this CD.
As for the eponymous T.Rogers, well, he doesn't seem to figure much here at
all. I'm guessing he is in truth none other than Ferci Kovaks using an Anglicised/US-sounding name to hopefully help
with band and album marketing and promotion!
www.trogers.hu
Iain Patience
TROND OLSEN BAND
Mercy
Toneland: TOBCD002
An absolutely fabulous second album here from the northern reaches of Europe. 'Mercy' is an eleven-track bit of great
blues with ten tracks written by band leader-frontman, Trond Olson, and
including a cracking cover of Robert Johnston's old classic, 'Come On In My
Kitchen', - a hard cut to give a fresh feel - featuring former John Mayall
Bluesbreaker sideman Buddy Whittington on guitar.
This is a Norwegian outfit, who clearly know their way around the blues; a
follow-up release to Olsen's 2009 debut, 'A New Day Comin', 'Mercy' should
win the band blues fans aplenty; full of strong, sensitive, soulful guitar from
Olson himself, and always alongside perfect percussion from Morten
Bergstrom, Lars Hammerlsand on Keys and Frank Hovland on booming Bass.
Vocal credits again lie with Olsen.
Mostly electrically-driven blues in the mix, the album closes with a haunting, nicely pitched acoustic piece from
Olsen, 'You'll Be Around'. This is a wonderful discovery, a truly excellent album full of gritty northern blues.
Positively rcommended.
www.toblive.com
Iain Patience
100 CHRISTMAS BLUES - RICHARD TOWNEND AND THE MIGHTY BOSSCATS 100 CLUB GIG REVIEW
Twas the week before Christmas and London was a bustling cornucopia of shoppers and tourists whilst a keen gathering of
dedicated blues fans made their way below ground at 100 Oxford Street. All was calm, until the Mighty Bosscats took to the
stage to kick off and evening of Blistering Christmas Blues at the legendary 100 club on Tuesday 16th December 2014.
The first time I was in this venue ... I found myself saying to Richard Townend the virtuoso singer / songwriter, guitar
player and leader of the Mighty Bosscats ... was in the 1970’s watching Alexis Korner sitting solo on a high bar stool playing
his blues harp and also acting as compere for the night's headliner which on that occasion was BBC R2 Blues Show presenter
Paul Jones and the Blues Band.
Well that was a long time ago, a lot of beer and blues has flowed since then - but the place still looks the same: shabby -
yes, steeped in music tradition - definitely - and yet oh-so cool!
Not-only do you need to be a canny act to get on the gig list in the first place for a Tuesday Blues Nights at the 100 Club,
but you also need to be able to hold your own with the other big cheeses on the the evenings tasting menu. So Richard (below
left) and the Boys took to the stage first with a blistering set of original dark, smooth-silky Mississippi Delta / Countrystyle hot
blues with songs taken from all of their repertoire including ‘7 Deadly Sins’ their new album which reached number two in
the IBBA charts. The Bosscats were supporting the adopted son of ‘Detroit Blues’ which is Marcus Malone - whose band is as
much of a contrast from the Bosscats as ‘Camembert and Stilton - both tangy and best taken with a good glass of something
special - different
a more traditional
but complementary. The other artist on the tasting menu was Mike “Dr
Blue”
player, more like a mature cheddar for a different palate than the heady mix of premier
-
blues served up with a helping of red-hot chillies from Bosscats and Marcus Malone.
Nevertheless, he was well received and was a really nice chap to boot!
Opening the evening in a place whose walls have dripped musical greatness since the
1940’s, (launching the likes of the Muddy Waters and the Sex Pistols) would `be a testing
experience
for any band - but for Richard Townend and the Mighty
Bosscats it seemed a fitting testimony to their musical
credentials on today’s blues scene.
The Mighty Bosscats kicked off their set with ‘Rain Keeps Coming’ one of
what seems to be an ever growing set of references to Biblical themes - this
being ‘Noah, his Arch and the Great Flood’ or maybe it was a reference to the
torrential rain we were subjected to on our way home that night! With Richard’s
smooth vocal and guitar style supported by Glenn Buck on drums, Phil Wilson on bass
and Phil Pawsey - harp/keys - the band kicked into a groove that was a far cry from the madness of Christmas Shopping
going on above ground. The set followed with ‘Fault Line (a personal favourite) blending JJ Cale style blues with a tight
backline rhythm, and guitar solos from Richard that would have made Mr Knopfler sit up and learn a trick or two.
Next stop ‘Cigar Box Blues’, ‘I Need A Friend’ and a return to the religion theme with ‘Ain’t Got Religion’ folowed by a
host of other amazing thought provoking numbers in a set that blended light and shade in style, lyric and vibe - a bit like a
complex glass of the finest Rioja or for those hotter numbers, a rich smoky Ardbeg or Laphroaig Whisky. The all too short set
drew towards its conclusion with ‘Elvis Coming Home’, a homage to a host of ‘Elvis’ songs in a spicy shuffle style - leaning to
blues-rock traditions that with more or less spice would be at home in any blues band’s song book - and with ‘Devil Inside’ a
song relating to everyone’s inner demons and addictions - mine being blues on a cold rainy night in London - an evening of
excellent blues and
(Good friends and great times!) was well and truly started.
ESSENTIALS: ALL THE STUFF YOU NEED TO KNOW
F
ebruary 5th sees a Blues double-header at a major new venue in Southampton, when
the Pete Harris R&B All Stars and the Bob Pearce Blues Band perform at the 1865, a
800 capacity venue equipped with state of the art sound and lighting systems.This will
be the first Blues gig at the venue, and the first time in fifteen years that Pete and Bob
have appeared on the same bill. Owners Adam and Paul Hooper are keen to stage regular
Blues evenings and are looking to book in leading British bands and touring American Blues
artists, provided that this first event attracts a large enough crowd. Said Pete Harris
"This could be a major boost for Blues in the Southampton area. Please come and support
what should be a great evening, and
show Adam and Paul that there is an
audience for the Blues in Southampton!"
Tickets £5 in advance from the venue
or on the door.
1865 Ltd,
Brunswick Square
Southampton
SO14 3AR
M
ulti award-winning guitarist, singer/songwriter and British Blues Hall of Famer, Matt Schofield, returns to
the UK with his ‘Return of the Trio Tour’.
Dates include The Jazz Cafe, London (March 3), followed by dates at The
Guildhall, Lichfield (March 6) and the Bristol Jazz Festival (March 8).
The three UK concerts follow Schofield’s November 2014 UK tour which
met with rave reviews, and will showcase tracks from his critically
acclaimed fifth studio album, "Far As I Can See". The trio line-up features
Matt Schofield (guitar vocals), Jonny Henderson (Hammond Organ and
keyboards), and Evan Jenkins (drums).
Over the last decade Schofield has earned a formidable international
reputation as one of the most innovative and revered contemporary blues
inspired guitarists on the world stage today. “Schofield transcends
comparisons, undeniably his own man with his own sound and style,” says
Guitar Magazine. “There isn’t a better British blues guitarist playing
currently.”
Matt Schofield – Official Website
www.mattschofield.com​​
KING KING New Album "Reaching For The Light" out May 5th.
UK Tour
BiTS AREA GIGS
ROBIN TROWER New Album "Something's About To Change" out on March 9th
Saturday 11th April
LONDON O2 SHEPHERD’S BUSH EMPIRE
Shepherds Bush Green, London, W12 8TT
See legendary British Blues guitarist Robin Trower live at venues in or
www.o2shepherdsbushempire.co.uk
very near to the BiTS area as he graces audiences with his incendiary
Tuesday 14-April
CRAWLEY HAWTH
Hawth Ave, Crawley RH10 6YZ
www.parkwoodtheatres.co.uk
Wednesday 15th April
EXETER CORN EXCHANGE
Market Street, Exeter, EX1 1BW
www.exeter.gov.uk/cornexchange
Thursday 16th April
SALISBURY CITY HALL
Malthouse Lane, Salisbury, SP2 7TU
www.cityhallsalisbury.co.uk
Friday 17th April
MILTON KEYNES STABLES
Stockwell Lane, Wavendon, Milton Keynes, MK17 8LU
www.stables.org
back-catalogue that saw the British music scene shift from a pop to rock
prevalence.
Heralded as one of the most influential guitar players, hear the signature
sound and style of the man who was tagged by the press with the nickname
of ‘The White Hendrix’ back in the 70’s.
Expect a mix of Trower’s solo work as well as celebratory performances
of certain Procol Harlem tracks. This is a night in the rock calendar not
to be missed.
Special guests will include Black Country born blues rock guitarist Joanne
Shaw Taylor.
E
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Below is the IBBA air-play chart for December 2014 produced by Dave Raven
for the Independent Blues Broadcasters Association and which is based on the
air-play choices of the albums by members on their shows. Congratulations to
all those who have ‘charted’. Please note that the chart is slightly distorted as a
consequance of DJs playing ‘Christmas Blues’ and other seasonal music.
Congratulations once again to Half Deaf Clatch and a big welcome to Aaron
Burton, a singer songwriter from Dallas, TX.. d BoPlease note b Bates - Bridge
POSITION -ARTIST -ALBUM
1
2
3
5
6
7
8
10
13
19
24
28
34
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
10
11
12
13
14
15
16
17
18
19
20
22
23
26
THE MOJO MAKERS DEVILS HANDS
BAD BOB BATES BRIDGE STREET
KATIE BRADLEY AND DUDLEY ROSS
ANCHOR BABY SESSIONS
HALF DEAF CLATCH BORROWED BLUES
BACK WATER ROLL BLUES BAND LIVE AT THE PLATFORM
BENNY TURNER JOURNEY
THE SIMON KENNEDY BAND MAKE UP YOUR MIND
THE MIGHTY BOSSCATS 7 DEADLY SINS
THE BRUCE KATZ BAND HOMECOMING
AARON BURTON ALL NIGHT LONG
EDDIE MARTIN BLUES TOOK ME BY THE HAND
ALTERED FIVE BLUES BAND CRYIN' MERCY
THE BLUES SPIDERS ALL MY FAULT
HURRICANE RUTH
BORN ON THE RIVER
GEORGE SHOVLIN & THE RADARS EP
THE KIRBY SEWELL BAND
GIRL WITH A NEW TATTOO
KENNY WAYNE SHEPHERD BAND GOIN' HOME
IAN SIEGAL MAN & GUITAR
WILLY BO WALKER AND KARENA K
A LONG WAY FROM HEAVEN
VARIOUS ARTISTS
ALLIGATOR RECORDS CHRISTMAS COLLECTION
JOE BONAMASSA
DIFFERENT SHADES OF BLUE
EMPIRE ROOTS BAND
FROM THE FILM HARLEM STREET SINGER
JO HARMAN LIVE AT THE ROYAL ALBERT HALL
REBECCA DOWNES
BACK TO THE START
VARIOUS ARTISTS
CHRISTMAS BLUES CD 1
THE JACK ROBERTS HARVEY BAND
DEVIL ON A DIRT ROAD
24 PESOS
DO THE RIGHT THING
RED BUTLER
FREEDOM BOUND
LISA MILLS I'M CHANGING
MISSY ANDERSON
IN THE MOMENT
DICK LEMASTERS ONE BIRD, TWO STONES
DEVON ALLMAN RAGGED AND DIRTY
VARIOUS ARTISTS
THE HOUSE OF BLUES CHRISTMAS ALBUM
HALF DEAF CLATCH A ROAD LESS TRAVELLED
KELLY'S LOT
DON'T GIVE MY BLUES AWAY
WILKO JOHNSON AND ROGER DALTRY GOING BACK HOME
HALF DEAF CLATCH
KATIE BRADLEY
MIGHTY BOSS CATS
ZOE SCHWARZ BLUE COMMOTION
IAN SIEGAL
KING SIZE SLIM
BROTHERS GROOVE
WALTER TROUT
TREVOR SEWELL
JO HARMAN
PAUL LAMB AND THE KINGSNAKES
ROBERT CRAY BAND
MICK SIMPSON
ROYAL SOUTHERN BROTHERHOOD
JOE BONAMASSA
MATT SCHOFIELD
KYLA BROX
BILL BLUE
KING KING
JOANNE SHAW TAYLOR
JOHNNY WINTER
ROSCOE LEVEE
BLACKTOP DELUXE
BRIDGET KELLY BAND
RIOTOUS BROTHERS
MARCUS MALONE
27 ERIC BIBB
TIM AVES AND WOLFPACK
29 MUDDY WATERS
30 ERJA LYYTINEN
31 JANIVA MAGNESS
32 LAURENCE JONES
MARK HARRISON
34 THE PROOF
35 KENNY WAYNE SHEPHERD BAND
36 KIRK FLETCHER
37 ALBERT CASTIGLIA
SONS OF THE DELTA
SPIKEDRIVERS
40 ROB HERON AND THE TEA PAD
ORCHESTRA
41 BUDDY GUY
STORM WARNING
MARCUS BONFANTI
44 ERIC CLAPTON
45 LIGHTNIN' HOPKINS
46 EDDIE MARTIN
LARRY MILLER
MALAYA BLUE
MOJO MAKERS
ROBBEN FORD
IBBA ‘PICKS’ for
FEBRUARY 2015
Catfish - So Many
Roads
Rebecca Downes - Back
To The Start
Joel Fisk & the
Breakdown - The Well
Joakim Tinderholt and
his Band - You Gotta Do
More
The Chart on the left is compiled fron the total
annual returns of the DJ members of the IBBA.
Positions reflect the GRAND TOTAL number of
plays of tracks BY AN ARTIST OR BAND and
are not related to any particular CD.
CLICK ANY OF THE PICS
ON THE LEFT AND YOU
WILL BE TAKEN TO
YOUTUBE FOR A GREAT
VIDEO TREAT.
Red Dirt Skinners - Mr. Jones (Official Video) /www.reddirtskinners.com
ALBERT COLLINS - LOVE CAN BE FOUND ANWHARE - EVEN IN A GUITAR (FULL ALBUM)
NEW ORLEANS SECOND LINE & MEMORIAL PARADE FOR DANNY BARKER 1995 TREME
Blues in the South
Is proud to support
Kansas City Online Radio
(KCOR)
Blues Radio 24/7/365
Blues Rock And Cool Talk
Check out
The Acoustic Blues Club
on
Monday at 10pm UK time
Blues music the way it should
be heard!