Demetria Taylor – Doin’ What I’m Supposed To Do
Delmark Records
12 tracks
Demetria Taylor, hailing from a lineage steeped in blues mastery as the daughter of Eddie and Vera Taylor, continues her family legacy with her latest album, "Doin’ What I’m Supposed To Do," released under the renowned Delmark Records. This marks her second album with Delmark and is a testament to her profound connection with the blues. Collaborating with seasoned artists Mike Wheeler and Deitra Farr, Demetria Taylor delivers a powerful collection of blues originals and heartfelt covers, making this album a must-listen for blues enthusiasts.
The ensemble, featuring Mike Wheeler on guitar, Larry Williams on bass, Brian James on keyboards, and Melvin “Pookie Styx” Carlisle on drums, creates a dynamic backdrop for Demetria's soulful vocals. The album kicks off with "83 Highway," a vibrant track showcasing Taylor's impassioned performance and a stellar guitar solo. It sets the tone for the album, blending traditional Chicago blues with contemporary elements.
"Baby Be Good" introduces a funky groove, with Mike Wheeler's guitar laying down a smooth foundation complemented by slick organ backing. The track, co-written by Wheeler and Williams, demonstrates Taylor's vocal prowess and the band's tight musical synergy. "Bad Girl Day" continues the funky fun, highlighting Taylor's vocal chops and delivering another standout performance.
A poignant moment arrives with "Blues Early This Morning," where Demetria Taylor and Deitra Farr join forces for a powerful duet. The song, originally penned by Taylor's mother Vera, showcases the strength of their vocals and pays homage to the family's blues heritage. The heartfelt rendition is a standout track that resonates with authenticity.
"Welfare Blues," written by Eddie Jr., adds a layer of emotional depth with its bluesy narrative and skillful guitar work. The album then transitions to original compositions by Wheeler and Williams, with tracks like "Doin’ What I’m Supposed To Do" and "Done" displaying Taylor's versatility in delivering both funky and slow blues with equal finesse. "I’m Gonna Tell It" is a compelling exploration of resilience after a failed relationship, enriched by the soulful organ backing and powerful guitar.
"Nursing My Kitty Cat" introduces a playful side with its clever innuendo, displaying Taylor's sense of humor amid the blues. The funky groove, coupled with Brian James' skillful piano, adds to the track's charm. The album continues to impress with Wheeler and Williams' compositions, including the captivating "Stay Gone," where Taylor's vocals shine against a backdrop of solid guitar soloing.
The album concludes with a brilliant cover of Magic Sam's "You Belong To Me," showcasing the band's prowess in interpreting blues classics. The final track, "Young Gun Taylor," co-authored by Taylor and James, serves as a biographical ode, reflecting on Demetria's commitment to carrying forward the family's musical legacy.
"Doin’ What I’m Supposed To Do" is a captivating blues journey that reveals Demetria Taylor's exceptional talent and deep connection to the genre. The well-crafted originals, coupled with heartfelt covers, make this album a standout addition to the Delmark Records catalog. With stellar musicianship, soulful vocals, and a diverse range of blues styles, Demetria Taylor and her ensemble deliver an album that resonates with authenticity and pays homage to the rich tradition of blues music. This is undoubtedly a release that blues aficionados will thoroughly enjoy, offering a refreshing and soul-stirring experience with each track.
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