Rating:
Genre:
Blues
Release Date: 05/01/1999
Run Time: 48:37
Rooted firmly in the
Little Walter and
William Clarke school of overdriven, usually amplified harmonica,
Steve Guyger blasts through 14 tracks of sturdy Chicago-styled
blues. The former touring bandmember for
Jimmy Rogers tears into these predominantly self-penned tunes with the fervor of the best postwar bluesmen, blowing with precision, intensity, and emotion. The tracks crackle with energy, whether they are in a slower tempo or more upbeat.
Guyger exudes a smoky, everyman voice that won't win any awards, yet works well with this material. But it's his gutsy harp, tight band, and imaginative arrangements that drive this album. From the
John Lee Hooker vibe of
"Rib Shack Boogie" (one of three newly added tracks) to the slow, ominous swamp crawl of the instrumental
"Snake Oil" and the
noir jazz of
"Monkey on a Limb," Guyger shifts moods and styles while maintaining a tough, moody attack. His playing on the playful
"Somethin's Smellin' Good (At My Baby's House)" is heavily reminiscent of
Kim Wilson's best work. Swinging drummer
Joe Maher, leader of labelmate
Big Joe & the Dynaflows, contributes skin work, but it's his production that shines here. Each instrument is crisply recorded, and the songs breathe no matter how fiercely
Guyger blows. The album is essential listening for harmonica fans, and a real find for any serious lover of
Chicago blues.
~Hal Horowitz, All Music Guide
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