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Blues Beat

Furry Lewis's Timeless Blues Resurrected: A Live Gem Rediscovered


Furry Lewis – Live At The Gaslight At The Au Go Go

Celebration Hall – 2023

13 tracks; 46 minutes


Celebration Hall has gifted blues enthusiasts a treasure trove with the reissue of Walter 'Furry' Lewis's "Live At The Gaslight At The Au Go Go." Originally recorded in 1971 at The Gaslight in New York, this live album provides an intimate glimpse into the world of Furry Lewis, an iconic figure whose contributions to blues music are immortalized in this timeless recording.


Born in the late 19th century in Greenwood, Mississippi, Furry Lewis's early recording career in the 1920s was a testament to his prowess as a blues artist. However, the harsh realities of the Great Depression forced him to abandon music temporarily as he took on the role of a street cleaner. A revival in the late 1950s reignited his musical journey, leading to recordings for labels like Arhoolie, Sire, and Blue Thumb. By 1971, Furry Lewis was once again making waves in the blues circuit.


"Live At The Gaslight At The Au Go Go" captures Furry Lewis at the age of 80, a seasoned bluesman whose voice may bear the weight of his years but retains the soulful essence of a blues legend. The album, reissued by Celebration Hall, not only preserves the original live recording but also includes liner notes dating back to 1971, providing historical context and insight into Furry Lewis's remarkable career.


The repertoire on this live album showcases Furry's musical depth, featuring a mix of spirituals, songs from the 1920s, and original compositions. Furry's distinctive guitar style, often percussive and complemented by his skilled slide work, shines throughout the performance. The audience's enthusiastic response and generous applause reflect the captivation inspired by Furry's presence on stage.


The opening track, "Paer Lee," sets the tone with Furry's adept use of slide and nods to blues classic "Walkin' Blues." A humorous touch emerges with "My Dog Got The Measles," where Furry's chuckles introduce a jaunty presentation that contrasts with the melancholy lyrics. Spirituals like "Nero My God To Thee" and autobiographical pieces like "East St Louis" reveal Furry's ability to infuse personal narratives into his music.


A notable segment features Furry Lewis joined by his protégé Ward Schaffer, adding a new dimension to the performance. Their collaboration on "Move To Kansas City" and "Pallet On The Floor" introduces a fuller sound, showcasing the chemistry between the two musicians.

Furry Lewis's solo renditions, including the iconic "John Henry," "Turn Your Money Green," and "K.C. Jones," round out the concert, providing a glimpse into the breadth of Furry's repertoire and his profound influence on blues storytelling.


As the album concludes, it becomes evident that "Live At The Gaslight At The Au Go Go" is not just a recording; it's a time capsule that captures the essence of Furry Lewis's blues mastery. His distinctive guitar work, emotive vocals, and the intimate live setting transport listeners to a different era, allowing a new generation to experience the magic of Furry Lewis.


Furry Lewis's impact on blues music endures, and Celebration Hall's reissue ensures that "Live At The Gaslight At The Au Go Go" continues to resonate with blues enthusiasts, serving as both a historical artifact and a testament to Furry Lewis's enduring legacy.

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