Floyd Dixon – Fine! Fine! Thing!
Blue Heart Records
12 songs – 46 minutes
Floyd Dixon's musical legacy, deeply rooted in the West Coast blues scene, receives a delightful revisit with the re-release of "Fine! Fine! Thing!" by Blue Heart Records. Originally unveiled in 2005, this timeless gem showcases Dixon's enduring talent, capturing the essence of his influential contributions to the blues genre. Born in 1929, Dixon's impact on blues history, with classics like "Telephone Blues" and "Call Operator 210," solidifies his status as a legend, a status further amplified by the enduring popularity of "Hey Bartender" after its feature in The Blues Brothers.
The album features a stellar ensemble backing Dixon, including Richard Ross and Stoney Dixon on bass, Hense Powell on Hammond B3, Craig Kimbrough and Johnny Tucker on drums, and Tony Matthews on guitar. The Ebony Horns, composed of Joe Campbell, Carle Vickers, and Bernard Baisden, also contribute to several tracks. Dixon's piano prowess remains undiminished by time, and his voice—a rich blend reminiscent of Big Joe Turner and Charles Brown—continues to resonate with the timeless essence of rock itself.
Dixon's songwriting takes center stage as he penned all 12 tracks on the album, exploring a diverse range of styles. From the swinging rhythm of "Carmen De Lavalade" to the instrumental finesse of "Cottontail" and the soulful reflection of "Think About The Good Times," Dixon's compositional skill shines throughout. The joyous collaboration with Candye Kane on "Love's The Key" and the gospel-infused "My Wish" add layers of depth to the album's sonic tapestry.
The band's synergy is palpable, creating a tight yet relaxed atmosphere that transports listeners to a dimly lit, smoky bar—a setting where Dixon and his cohorts have been weaving their musical magic for hours. While Dixon's piano solos are somewhat restrained, Tony Matthews steps into the limelight with warm tones and tasteful guitar work, evident in tracks like "Ain't That Right" and the enticing opener, "Love Oh Love." However, Dixon's piano mastery takes the forefront in the instrumental "Floyd's Groove" and the joyful solo on "Everything's Alright."
Recorded at Leon Hayward's Sunnyside Recording Studios in Los Angeles, the album benefits from stellar sound quality, a testament to the engineering, mixing, and mastering skills of Bill Dashiell and Bill Dooley.
"Floyd Dixon's "Fine! Fine! Thing!" is more than a musical journey; it's a celebration of a distinctive West Coast blues style that has influenced generations. From traditional slow blues to upbeat R&B, Dixon's creations stand as a testament to his unparalleled artistry. This re-released masterpiece invites listeners to immerse themselves in the infectious joy of Dixon's music, ensuring that "Fine! Fine! Thing!" remains a cherished addition to any blues aficionado's collection—a timeless ode to the enduring spirit of West Coast blues.
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