Various Artists – Blind Raccoon and Nola Blue Collection Volume 5
Blue Heart Records BHR 039
30 songs – 134 minutes
The collaborative powerhouse of Blind Raccoon and Blue Heart/Nola Blue Records continues to dazzle with the release of "Blind Raccoon and Nola Blue Collection Volume 5" (BHR 039). This two-CD compilation, a celebration of their talented roster, features 30 songs and a whopping 134 minutes of blues and roots music that spans a broad spectrum of styles. From established icons like Teresa James and Anthony Geraci to rising stars like Alex Lopez and Trevor B. Power, this collection offers a feast for blues enthusiasts.
Initiated by Betsie Brown of Memphis-based Blind Raccoon and Sallie Bengston, the driving force behind Blue Heart and Nola Blue Records in Pennsylvania, this compilation adheres to the successful formula of its predecessors. It's a tapestry woven with fan favorites, unreleased bonus tracks, sneak peeks of upcoming releases, and more, showcasing the diversity and depth of their ever-expanding talent pool.
The first disc kicks off with Teresa James and the Rhythm Tramps delivering the sassy "I'd Do It for You," setting the stage for a musical journey that touches on various blues and roots subgenres. Floyd Dixon's posthumous ballad "Time Brings About a Change" gracefully features the skills of guitarist Kid Ramos, while Stacy Jones contributes the lively "Jefferson Way," and Steve Howell & the Mighty Men provide a bluesy rendition of "The In Crowd."
Newcomer Gayle Harrod makes a striking debut with "Come on People," followed by Professor Louie & the Cromatix's encouraging "Elevate Yourself" and Dave Thomas revisiting "Repossession Blues." The disc continues to deliver standout performances, including Carol Sylvan and the Uptown Horns' soulful "Savin' Up for Your Love" and S.JA's collaboration with Robert Hill on "Maybe You Will Someday."
Disc one also features gems like The Maple Blues Band's infectious "Hey Nola," Tiffany Pollack's compelling "Dissent," Kenny Parker's rock-steady "Tight Black Sweater," and Reverend Freakchild's acoustic, gospel-tinged "Good Shepherd."
Disc two opens with Anthony Geraci's "Haven't Seen My Baby," a robust barrelhouse showcase, followed by John Németh and the Blue Dreamers celebrating their enduring partnership with "My Baby's Gone." Organ virtuoso John Ginty dazzles with the instrumental "Switch," and Minnesota veteran Mark Cameron delivers the poignant "That's a Fact." Debbie Bond's "Blues Without Borders" introduces a world beat flavor, adding to the compilation's rich tapestry.
David Lumsden pays homage to Hendrix with "Ode to Jimi (Slow Burn)," while a tribute to the late Frank Bey features "Imagine" from his final, Grammy-nominated album. Trevor B. Power's guitar-driven "Troubled to the Core" stands out, along with Rochelle & the Sidewinders' fiery "My Baby Came Back." The second disc also includes standout tracks like Anthony "Big A" Sherrod's Howlin' Wolf-inspired "Everybody Ain't Your Friend," Alex Lopez's uplifting "See the Light," Carlos Elliot and Bobby Gentilo's Spanish ballad "Cielo," and Benny Turner's soulful closer, "Born in This Time."
"Blind Raccoon and Nola Blue Collection Volume 5" is a treasure trove for blues aficionados, offering a diverse array of styles and showcasing the depth of talent within the Blind Raccoon and Blue Heart/Nola Blue family. Dive into this compilation, and you'll undoubtedly discover new favorites while reaffirming your love for the blues.
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