D.K. Harrell – The Right Man
Little Village Foundation LVF 1055
11 songs – 49 minutes
D.K. Harrell, the meteoric force hailing from Ruston, Louisiana, has emerged as the blues sensation of the moment with his debut album, "The Right Man" on Little Village Foundation. At just 25, Harrell's rise in the blues scene has been nothing short of remarkable, from learning guitar through YouTube videos to sharing the stage with luminaries like Bobby Rush, Gary Clark Jr., and Susan Tedeschi with Derek Trucks. This debut offering firmly establishes him among the blues elite, and after a listen, there's no denying the talent and charisma that set him apart.
Harrell's musical journey began in the church choir, but it was the blues that captured his heart, inspiring him to pick up the harmonica at eight before transitioning to the guitar.
Immerse yourself in the 11 original tracks of "The Right Man," and you'll witness a sonic palette that channels the essence of B.B. King but carries the unmistakable imprint of Harrell's unique style. Produced by Kid Andersen at Graceland Studios in California, the album benefits from a stellar lineup of musicians, a trademark of Little Village Foundation releases.
Backing Harrell are heavyweights like Kid Andersen on rhythm guitar, Grammy winners Jim Pugh, Jerry Jemmott, and Tony Coleman on keys, bass, and percussion, respectively. A six-piece horn section, featuring Neil Levonius, John Halbleib, Mike Rinta, Mike Peloquin, Aaron Lington, and Stephen "Doc" Kupka, adds a dynamic layer to the arrangements. Notable contributions also come from Jon Otis on congas, Don Dally on strings, and backing vocals by Tia Carroll, Lisa Leuschner Andersen, Quique Gomez, and Alabama Mike.
The album kicks off with the electrifying "The Right Man," where Harrell's searing guitar leads and rich tenor voice confront the complexities of love. "You're a Queen" follows, a spirited anthem celebrating women for their innate regality, untethered by societal norms. In "Get These Blues Out of Me," Harrell lays bare his pre-show nerves and excitement, committing to pouring his heart into every note.
Funk and heat permeate "You'd Be Amazed," emphasizing the importance of self-authenticity and hard work. The medium-paced shuffle, "While I'm Young," finds Harrell looking forward to breaking hearts and making a mark. "Not Here for a Long Time" and its reprise set the stage for the deep blues of "Hello Trouble," exploring fleeting encounters and the allure of mischief.
Harrell's versatility shines in the unhurried "Honey Ain't So Sweet," the advice-packed "Leave It at the Door," and the minor-key beauty "One for the Road," bringing a satisfying conclusion to the album.
"The Right Man" is more than an album; it's a proclamation. D.K. Harrell has arrived, and his blues prowess is nothing short of breathtaking. This debut is a must-listen, a testament to a new star ascending in the blues firmament. Don't miss out on witnessing the birth of a blues legend.
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