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Sound Impressions
It's a fast paced world and you only get one chance to make a first impression...
To make your Sound Impression, send 2 copies of your CD or DVD
to:
BarrelhouseBlues.com
490-B Plymouth Street
Bridgewater, MA 02324
ATTN: Sound Impressions
There are no guarantees that all submitted CDs
or DVDs will be reviewed.
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After the Storm - Northernblues Music
The Twisters
This is what modern Blues is all about.
Tight arrangements, great vocal harmonies, and spot on yet understated
instrumental performances. All with a firm foothold into the roots
and tradition of the Blues. With one exception, a Sonny Boy Williamson
tune, the CD is packed with all original tunes that bring freshness and
spontaneity to the sometimes over worked playbook of the Blues. A fantastic
musical statement. |
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Ear to the Ground - Nugene Records
The Matt Schofield Trio
This CD is a joy to the ears. Straddling the line between Blues and Blues/Rock,
the mix never gets heavy handed. Instead, it floats with masterful guitar
playing, pleasing vocals and refreshing arrangements. The big surprise
is that because of it being an organ trio, the group sounds fuller and
more complete than your typical guitar, bass and drums line up. Musically
light and tight as we like to describe it. A great listen.
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I've Been Thinkin' - Iridium Music
Gino Matteo
This is a stunning release of all original tunes. Not exactly Blues,
but "Soul" Music - and we're not talking about the genre. Instead, it
is music that touches your soul and speaks to your inner self. With strings
and horns, it is stylistically refreshing and well arranged, but it may
take more than one listen to reach you. Once it does, you'll find yourself
drawn in. It will grab you and not let go. Enjoy the emotional and musical
journey. |
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My Kind of Crazy - Smoke Ring Records
The
Mojomatics
The hardest part of this review was getting past the cover art to open
up the CD. Once this hurtle was over, we were able to sink our teeth
into the musical gumbo that awaited within. Quite flavorful. Quirky,
with a great deal of sonic and rhythmic surprises. With the music firmly
rooted in traditional Blues, yet surprisingly adventurous, it defied
characterization. So how would we describe it? Radical traditional
Blues is the term that came to mind.. Worth a listen. |
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Bobby Rush Raw - Deep Rush Records
Bobby Rush
All but 3 songs on this CD are Bobby Rush originals. And from the opening
track, the term less is more strikes a powerful chord. With the exception
of Shawn Kellerman performing Dobro slide on 3 of the tracks, Bobby pulls
this off solo, playing harmonica, acoustic guitar, percussion (feet),
and vocals. The power of the compositions and the heartfelt performances
shine through like a beacon in the night. A great Sound Impression.
http://www.bobbyrush.net |
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The Moon is Rising - Independent
The Ricky "King" Russell Band
The consummate Blues man serves up a generous helping of swingin' Blues,
sizzlin' slide and soaring vocals touching on influences ranging from Elmore
James to T-Bone Walker and even a detectable touch of Wes Montgomery thrown
in for good measure. This disc takes you on a musical journey through several
generations of Blues styles while maintaining the identity of the "King."
Ricky "King" Russell. Another great Impression.
http://rickykingrussell.com |
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Shuffle the Deck - Smoke
Ring Records
Paul Gabriel and his Blues Band
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thing was clear when we first listened to this CD - from the very first track,
we wanted to put on our dancing shoes! The disc is filled with swinging,
jump n' jiving tunes and smooth, evocative guitar licks. Paul's voice is
especially suited for the music with an understated yet authoritive presence.
This disc is a must have for all those that love to listen and move to the
groove.
http://www.paulgabriel.net |
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Guitar'd and Feathered - Ruf Records
Candye Kane
This disc features an impressive roster of guest guitarists including
Sue Foley, Ana Popvic, Bob Brozman, Kid Ramos, Papa Chubby, Dave Alvin,
Junior Watson and Bob Margolin. The tunes run the gamut from ballads
to boogie, and torch songs to swing, all done with professional finesse.
An amazing collection of musically diverse styles all held together
by the soaring, powerful, fun filled vocals of Ms. Kane.
http://www.candyekane.com |
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Voodoo Moon - Armadillo Music Limited
The Rocky Athas Group
This disc is filled with great road music. Turn up the volume while cruisin'
down the road. Your head won't stop boppin' to the beat. The disc contains
well written, catchy tunes that explode with Rocky's fat, expressive
guitar tones. All the tunes have great hooks and the acoustic material
is especially satisfying. A well done, well produced musical journey
by an artist poised for stardom.
http://www.rockyathas.com |
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Chris Fitz Band - CFB Records
Chris Fitz Band
This self titled CD is filled with all original tunes. From tender ballads,
delta blues and blues rock, the disc sparkles with fiery guitar riffs
as well as slide and dobro guitar. Chris ignites the electric guitar
with Hendrixian tones and flash, yet maintains a balance with equal doses
of introspective tunes played acoustically with a tender touch. A well
rounded effort.
http://www.chrisfitzband.com |
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