Manlio Milazzi & JJ Appleton – North of the Sea
Independent Release
12 Tracks – 52 minutes
In the harmonious collaboration of Manlio Milazzi and JJ Appleton, the blues finds new life in the acoustic realm with their latest release, "North of the Sea." This dynamic duo, brought together by the harmonica virtuoso Jason Ricci, delivers a 12-track masterpiece that effortlessly weaves together blues classics, original compositions, and a touch of New Orleans spirit.
Manlio Milazzi, hailing from Trieste, Italy, and JJ Appleton, a nominee for Best Acoustic Guitar in the Blues Blast Magazine’s Awards, seamlessly blend their musical backgrounds to create a refreshing acoustic blues experience. The album, recorded during two live studio sessions, captures the essence of their artistic synergy.
The journey begins with the lively rendition of Professor Longhair's "Tipitina," a New Orleans gem that sets the stage for the acoustic brilliance that follows. Appleton's slide work and vocals, accompanied by Milazzi's harmonica, pay homage to the spirit of Dr. John, immersing the listener in the lively sounds of the Big Easy.
"Crazy Head," the first original from Manlio Milazzi, introduces a smooth acoustic touch, showcasing the duo's ability to craft original compositions with soulful finesse. Transitioning to the Jimmy Reed classic, "Found True Love," Appleton's vocals convey the heartache of unrequited love, capturing the essence of Reed's timeless blues.
The journey takes a Texas swing with T-Bone Walker's "Stormy Monday," where the duo's instrumentation, including Simone Serafini's upright bass, creates a captivating sonic landscape. The New Orleans influence returns with a slow-burn rendition of Dr. John's "Careless Love," allowing the musicians to infuse their own magic into this blues standard.
Manlio Milazzi's original, "Heavy Heart Blues," injects a rocking energy into the album, with Serafini's bass providing a solid foundation for Milazzi's harmonica and vocals, and Appleton's skillful slide work adding a touch of blues brilliance. Appleton's original, "Stove Cold Ouch," adds a playful yet poignant moment, echoing the lessons learned from his mother.
The trio's take on James Oden's "Going Down Slow" is a standout track, where the band puts their unique spin on this blues classic, breathing new life into its timeless lyrics. Milazzi's final original on the album, "One More Parade," brings a contemplative touch, showcasing the depth of emotion that acoustic blues can convey.
Taj Mahal's "Going Up the Country and Paint My Mailbox Blue" allows Appleton to shine in a superb interpretation that captures the essence of Taj Mahal's blues journey. John Lee Hooker's "Shake It Baby" takes the listener on a boogie-woogie ride, with Appleton's slide work and Milazzi's harmonica creating a vibrant sonic tapestry.
The album concludes with a spirited version of Los Lobos' "I Got Loaded," leaving the listener invigorated by the acoustic prowess displayed throughout "North of the Sea."
Milazzi and Appleton prove to be a formidable duo, seamlessly blending their vocals, guitars, and harmonica to create an acoustic blues masterpiece. The album's diverse selection of covers, original compositions, and the trio's unique interpretations breathe new life into the blues genre. With each track, "North of the Sea" showcases the beauty and timelessness of acoustic blues, reminding us that, in the hands of these skilled musicians, the blues journey is as vibrant and captivating as ever.
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