Big Frank / Mike Smith – Outskirts of Town
JoJo Honey Records
12 Tracks – 60 Minutes
In the ever-evolving soundscape of blues, authenticity remains a rare gem, and Big Frank Mirra, alongside harmonica virtuoso Mike Smith, brings forth a timeless acoustic experience in their latest collaboration, "Outskirts of Town." Released under JoJo Honey Records, this 12-track album takes listeners on a journey through the roots of American blues, revisiting classics and capturing the essence of the original blues experience.
Big Frank Mirra, a longstanding figure in the New York City Tri-State Blues Scene, brings decades of dedication and expertise to the forefront. Starting as a teenager with a penchant for Rock and Roll, Frank's journey led him to the soulful allure of blues. His proficiency with acoustic and electric guitars, coupled with a distinctive emphasis on bottle neck slide and dobro techniques, positions him as a torchbearer for traditional blues. Notably, Frank's vocals have earned him accolades, with a mention by disc jockey Sonny Payne as "the closest thing I've heard to Hound Dog Taylor" on the "King Biscuit Flour Hour."
Teaming up with harmonica maestro Mike Smith, the duo has been a fixture in the New York Metro roots music scene for over a decade. "Outskirts of Town" is a testament to their dedication to preserving the authentic blues experience. Recorded live in the studio in January 2023, the album maintains a raw, unfiltered acoustic tone, capturing the essence of blues classics with a contemporary touch.
The journey begins with the familiar chords of Willie Dixon's "Bring it On Home," a blues standard that has transcended generations. Big Frank's smooth vocals intertwine with Mike's harmonica prowess, setting the stage for what unfolds as a captivating acoustic experience. Tracks like John Brim's "Ice Cream Man" and Howlin' Wolf's "Smokestack Lightning" maintain an upbeat tempo, infusing energy into the traditional blues narrative.
Throughout the album, the duo explores the thematic nuances of blues – love, heartbreak, and the struggles of everyday life. From the laid-back blues of Big Bill's "I'm Gonna Move (To the Outskirts of Town)" to the poignant storytelling in Sonny Boy Williamson's "Keep It to Yourself," each track resonates with emotional depth and narrative richness.
"Outskirts of Town" pays homage to blues legends like Howlin' Wolf, Son House, and Charley Patton. By delving into lesser-known gems like Morris "Magic Slim" Holt's "Gambling Blues" and Joe Clayton's "Cheating and Lying Blues," the album becomes a sonic archive, preserving the spirit of traditional blues for contemporary audiences.
The acoustic simplicity of the album, coupled with Mike's harmonica nuances, provides a refreshing contrast to modern blues interpretations. While Frank's vocals may occasionally hint at strain, they add an authentic touch, reminiscent of the raw, emotive delivery characteristic of blues legends.
In a musical landscape often dominated by evolving genres, "Outskirts of Town" stands as a testament to the enduring legacy of blues. Big Frank and Mike Smith's dedication to the roots of this genre ensures that the flame of traditional blues continues to burn bright. In navigating the outskirts of town, they invite listeners to rediscover the soul-stirring authenticity that defines the blues experience.
コメント