Doug Deming & The Jewel Tones – "Groovin’ at Groove Now! A Blues Extravaganza Across the Atlantic

Doug Deming & The Jewel Tones – Groovin’ at Groove Now! Live in Basel, Switzerland

Endless Blues Records

www.dougdeming.com

12 tracks including an Introduction

Doug Deming, the blues maestro from Bradenton, Florida, embarked on a musical journey that led him and his talented band, The Jewel Tones, all the way to Basel, Switzerland. The result of this international blues rendezvous is the outstanding live album, "Groovin’ at Groove Now!" Released under Endless Blues Records, this album captures the essence of a night filled with blues, soul, and the kind of grooves that only Doug Deming and his cohorts can deliver.

The Jewel Tones, featuring Andrew Gohman on bass and Zack Pomerleau on drums and harmonica, join forces with three exceptional guest artists—Sax Gordon, Terry Hanck on saxophones, and Bill Heid on keyboards. With this remarkable ensemble, Doug Deming unleashes a performance that transcends geographical boundaries, proving that the blues is a universal language.

The live recording opens with an introduction by Patrick Kaiser, setting the stage for an unforgettable night of music. The band kicks off with "East Side Hop," an instrumental track that sets the audience in motion. Doug Deming's guitar prowess takes center stage, complemented by the vibrant interplay between Sax Gordon's saxophone and Bill Heid's keys. The result is a swinging and jiving experience that showcases the band's exceptional talents.

"Only Time Will Tell" follows, a blues narrative where Doug Deming shares a tale of the eternal struggle between an angel and a devil, with Zack Pomerleau adding his gritty harmonica to the mix. The slow and soulful "Put It Down" exhibits the band's versatility, with Doug delivering thoughtful licks and a noteworthy organ solo adding depth to the composition.

The tempo picks up with a rocking rendition of Fats Domino's "I'm Ready." The energy is infectious as the band takes the listener on a wild, high-octane ride. Pomerleau's harp work shines on "Oh Baby," a track where Doug coaxes his woman not to leave, while a classic Willie Dixon piece, "You'll Miss Me," gets a remarkable rendition with a standout performance by Pomerleau on harmonica.

"Every Night When I Get Home" slows things down, offering a beautiful, slow blues interlude. Doug Deming's emotive vocals captivate the audience, creating a poignant atmosphere. The lively "Bloodshot Eyes" adds a touch of rockabilly, with Sax Gordon delivering captivating horn sections and Doug's guitar leaving listeners breathless.

"Mama Didn’t Raise No Fool" injects a playful vibe, showcasing Terry Hanck's solo before Pomerleau takes the reins with his impressive harp skills. "No Sense" delivers a slower jump blues, featuring slick piano and guitar solos that enrich the musical tapestry.

An old-school Chicago blues feel permeates "An Eye For An Eye," a deep, slow blues from Doug's earlier works. Pomerleau's harp work once again impresses, capturing the essence of the South Side of Chicago. The final track, "Whisper," is a sweet jump blues where Doug coaxes his woman to draw near, allowing the band to showcase their instrumental prowess one last time.

This live recording, with its eight original songs and three covers, captures the essence of Doug Deming at his best. The chemistry among The Jewel Tones and the guest musicians is palpable, creating a musical synergy that transcends the Atlantic. "Groovin’ at Groove Now!" is not just an album; it's a testament to the power of live blues performances that connect artists and audiences across borders. Every blues enthusiast should add this exceptional live recording to their collection—it's a true gem that deserves recognition and accolades.