Jörg Danielsen – Foolin’ Around
17 Tracks – 76 minutes
In the heart of Austria, a blues prodigy emerged at the age of 16, fueled by the electric vibes of Chicago blues. Jörg Danielsen, the maestro behind the Vienna Blues Association, has been shaping his blues legacy since 2008. With a dedication to the vintage sounds of the '60s and '70s, Danielsen and his revamped band present their fifth studio album, "Foolin' Around," a sonic journey that pays homage to the roots while carving a distinct niche in the contemporary blues landscape.
Clocking in at 76 minutes with 17 tracks, "Foolin' Around" is a testament to Danielsen's commitment to the blues. The album kicks off with the infectious rhythm of "She Wants to Dance," setting the tone for what unfolds as a masterclass in blues storytelling. Danielsen's smooth vocals and skillful guitar work intertwine seamlessly, creating an atmosphere reminiscent of blues legends like The Fabulous Thunderbirds.
The instrumental "JD Boogie" is a foot-stomping interlude that showcases Danielsen's prowess on the guitar, while "I'll Be Your Doctor" introduces the harmonica talents of Argentina's Jorge Costales, offering a prescription to chase away the blues.
"What A Time" slows down the tempo, embracing a soulful blues mood with Anita Fabiani's organ adding depth to Danielsen's expressive guitar. The lyrics paint a picture of a brand-new day, perfectly capturing the essence of the blues—resilience in the face of adversity.
The album features a dynamic mix of originals and covers, with Willie Dixon's "29 Ways" delivering a rocking jump blues experience. "Foolin' Around," an instrumental boogie, and "Devil on My Shoulder," a shuffle with Jorge Costales on harmonica, showcase Danielsen's versatility and playful approach to storytelling.
Throughout the album, Danielsen effortlessly navigates between original compositions and classic blues covers. The juxtaposition of Hudson "Tampa Red" Whitaker's "It Hurts Me Too" and Mack Rice's "Cold Women with Warm Hearts" exemplifies the breadth of Danielsen's blues palette.
"Foolin' Around" doesn't shy away from collaborations. Federico joins as a guest guitarist on "True Love," bringing a slide guitar flavor that beautifully complements Danielsen's plea for enduring love. Barcelona's Chino Swingslide adds a touch of country twang to "Watchin' The Sun Rise," contributing to the album's diverse sonic landscape.
The blues legacy takes a historical turn with renditions of classics like Buster Brown's "Fannie Mae," Jimmy Liggins' "I Ain't Drunk," and Shifty Henry's "Let Me Go Home Whiskey." Danielsen infuses each track with his unique energy, paying homage to the blues while making it distinctly his own.
The album concludes with a fitting nod to ZZ Top with an acoustic slide guitar rendition of "Mexican Blackbird," showcasing Danielsen's ability to weave between genres seamlessly.
"Foolin' Around" is not just an album; it's a blues odyssey guided by Danielsen's rich vocals, electrifying guitar, and a band that complements his every note. With a dynamic range of emotions and stories, Jörg Danielsen cements his status as a force in the European blues scene, making waves that resonate far beyond the Austrian borders.
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