Candice Ivory – When The Levee Breaks – The Music of Memphis Minnie
12 Tracks – 46 minutes
In the rich tapestry of blues history, Memphis Minnie stands as a towering figure, a pioneer whose influence reverberates through the years. To commemorate the 50th anniversary of Minnie's passing, Candice Ivory steps into the spotlight with her latest album, "When The Levee Breaks – The Music of Memphis Minnie." Released under Little Village Foundation, this soul-stirring tribute takes Minnie's timeless classics and weaves them into a contemporary narrative, breathing new life into the Queen of Avant Soul's extraordinary catalog.
Candice Ivory, a Memphis-born professor and accomplished jazz artist, embraces the challenge of reinterpreting Minnie's blues legacy. With guidance from jazz and blues guitarist Charlie Hunter, Candice embarks on a musical journey that pays homage to the legendary Memphis Minnie while infusing her own modern flair into each note.
The album kicks off with a bold rendition of "Me and My Chauffer," one of Minnie's biggest hits. Candice introduces a unique percussive beat, infusing an Afro sound that sets the stage for the journey ahead. "When the Levee Breaks," famously reworked by Led Zeppelin, takes on a primal quality in Candice's hands, with driving percussion at its rhythmic core.
Candice's prowess shines on "You Can't Rule Me," where the percussion takes the lead, paving the way for Hunter's evocative guitar. The acoustic charm of "When You Love Me" captures the essence of Minnie's duo performances, highlighting Candice's vocals against Hunter's delicate guitar work.
"Crazy Crying Blues" unleashes Candice's wailing voice with a gospel overtone, expressing pain and vulnerability. The soulful "World of Trouble" and the double entendre-filled "Pile Driving Blues" showcase the diversity of Minnie's catalog, while Candice's interpretation adds a fresh perspective.
The album gracefully navigates through Minnie's emotional landscape. "Hole In the Wall" carries a soulful blues vibe, and "Hard Down Lie" presents a straightforward blues narrative, accentuated by Candice's vocals and Hunter's slide guitar. "Hoodoo Lady" builds gradually, capturing the spirit of Minnie's storytelling.
Closing the album with "New Bumble Bee," Candice reimagines another of Minnie's double entendre songs, infusing it with a reggae beat. It's a fitting conclusion to a tribute that spans genres and eras, connecting the roots of blues to the contemporary sounds of Candice Ivory.
"When The Levee Breaks" stands not only as a homage to Memphis Minnie but as a testament to the enduring power of her music. Candice Ivory's reverence for the blues pioneer is evident in every note, making this album a compelling addition to the legacy of both artists.
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