Boo Boo Davis – Boo Boo Boogaloo
Blue Lotus Recordings – 2023
10 tracks – 50 minutes Boo Boo Davis, a living legend in the blues realm, returns with his twelfth studio album, "Boo Boo Boogaloo," delivering ten tracks of unadulterated post-war harmonica-led electric blues. Backed by a stellar ensemble featuring LA Jones on guitar, Adrianna Marie on bass, and Chris Millar on drums, Boo Boo Davis takes listeners on a soulful journey through the heart of the Mississippi Delta blues.
Born James "Boo Boo" Davis in Drew, Mississippi, in 1943, Davis was immersed in the blues from an early age. Growing up in a musical household, he rubbed shoulders with legends like John Lee Hooker, Elmore James, and Robert Petway. By the age of five, Boo Boo was already playing the harmonica and singing in church.
"Boo Boo Boogaloo" stands as a testament to Davis's deep-rooted connection to the blues, a genre he has lived and breathed throughout his remarkable career. The opening track, "Little House By Myself," sets the tone with Davis declaring his independence and prowess. His vocals, strong and empathetic, blend seamlessly with LA Jones's guitar work, creating an authentic blues atmosphere.
The boogie-infused "At The Red Door" captures the excitement of live performances, showcasing Boo Boo's enthusiasm for the stage. LA Jones's chicken-scratch guitar style adds flair to "She Made Me Evil," a track that exudes energy and charisma.
The heart-wrenching "Blues On My Mind" sees Davis waking up to the melancholy realization of love gone wrong. Jones's soulful guitar complements Boo Boo's harmonica, creating a bluesy lament that resonates with authenticity. Transitioning to a ballad, "Make Everything Alright" reveals Davis's versatile vocal range as he croons about the healing power of love.
"Hell Round Here" serves as a social commentary, urging listeners to stop the fighting and killing. The song reflects Davis's ability to infuse his blues with relevant messages, demonstrating the timeless nature of the genre. On a brighter note, "Once A Year" celebrates the joy of Christmas, offering a heartfelt respite from the bluesy contemplation.
The title track, "Boo Boo Boogaloo," injects a dose of infectious energy, encouraging everyone to hit the dance floor. "I Got the Crying Blues" delivers a low-down, head-nodding lament about heartbreak, capturing the essence of traditional blues storytelling. The album concludes with the upbeat, mostly instrumental "Jungle Bump," leaving listeners on a high note.
Boo Boo Davis's authenticity shines through on "Boo Boo Boogaloo," a timeless blues offering that pays homage to the genre's roots. With a top-notch band propelling his sound, Davis cements his status as a blues maestro, ensuring that the legacy of Mississippi Delta blues lives on through his music.
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