Michael Jerome Browne – Gettin’ Together
14 Tracks – 51 Minutes Michael Jerome Browne, a seasoned artist rooted in the rich tapestry of blues, embarks on a captivating exploration of old-time blues with his latest release, "Gettin' Together." Born in South Bend, Indiana, Browne's musical journey began at an early age, shaped by the vibrant jazz and blues scene in Montreal, where his parents, both English professors, exposed him to the nuances of the genre. A multi-instrumentalist, Browne's mastery spans guitar, banjo, fiddle, mandolin, and harmonica, showcasing his deep connection to the roots of American music.
"Gettin' Together" stands as a testament to Browne's musical prowess and dedication to preserving the legacy of old-time blues. With an illustrious career marked by numerous accolades and collaborations with blues luminaries, including his work on Eric Bibb's Grammy-nominated album, Browne brings together a stellar lineup of friends to breathe life into a historical cross-section of blues classics.
The album unfolds with an acoustic rendition of Mississippi John Hurt's "Monday Morning Blues," featuring Browne on a 12-string guitar and harmonica accompaniment by his friend Harrison Kennedy. The spirit of collaboration continues with Eric Bibb joining on a 9-string guitar for a rendition of Booker White's "Shake 'em On Down." Mary Flowers adds her lap slide guitar skills to the instrumental "I've Got the Big River Blues," providing a delightful sonic texture.
Browne and Flowers unite for a captivating duet on Mississippi John Hurt's "Coffee Blues," a soulful rendition with John Sebastian contributing harmonica. The collaborative spirit extends further as Colin Linden joins Browne for Rube Lacy's "Ham Hound Crave." The track showcases the camaraderie between the two musicians, rooted in their decades-long friendship.
Throughout the album, Browne seamlessly shifts between instruments, including the 12-string guitar, banjo, and gourd banjo. Each track feels like a musical journey, paying homage to influential blues figures while offering fresh interpretations. Notably, Browne's choice to include lesser-known artists such as Harold Holiday and Bayless Rose adds a layer of rediscovery to the album.
The instrumental "Reverend Strut" on a 6-string banjo adds a personal touch as Browne reflects on the opportunity to play the banjo originally used by the legendary Rev. Gary Davis. The lost 1936 song "Married Man Blues" is resurrected, featuring Mary Flowers and Browne's intricate guitar work.
The album concludes with a lively rendition of Brownie McGhee's "Living with the Blues," featuring an ensemble of talented musicians, including John Sebastian, Happy Traum, and John McColgan. The track captures the essence of camaraderie and celebration, rounding off the album on an upbeat note.
Browne's vocals, characterized by a slightly strained yet authentic quality, perfectly complement the old-time blues artists he honors on this recording. The album's strength lies in its commitment to traditional interpretations, presenting a musical journey that resonates with aficionados of classic blues. "Gettin' Together" serves as a musical time capsule, reintroducing listeners to long-forgotten musicians and songs while offering a fresh perspective on the timeless legacy of old-time blues.
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