Mick Kolassa – Wooden Music
Endless Blues Records
11 tracks
Mick Kolassa, a seasoned blues artist with a heart for community support, has once again graced us with a remarkable album, "Wooden Music." This acoustic venture not only showcases Kolassa's songwriting finesse but also benefits essential programs: the HART Fund and Generation Blues, dedicated to aiding musicians with medical costs and nurturing young talents in the realm of music.
Produced by Jeff Jensen, who also lends his guitar skills, including some soulful slide and percussion, "Wooden Music" is a collaborative effort featuring an impressive lineup of musicians. Kolassa himself takes on various roles, from playing guitar and percussion to handling kazoo, while Carl Casperson on upright bass, Tom Lonardo on drums, and Rick Steff on piano and accordion form the core band.
The album kicks off with "Educated By The Blues," a narrative of Kolassa's personal journey, forsaking college for the invaluable education he found in the blues. Eric Hughes joins in with soulful harmonica, setting the tone for a captivating musical expedition. "You Gotta Pay The Price" follows, addressing the struggles of the working class compared to the affluent, and "Sugar In Your Grits" emphasizes the importance of tradition in blues, featuring the harmonica prowess of Bob Corritore.
A standout moment arrives with a rendition of Guy Clark's "Baby Took A Limo To Memphis," where Libby Rae Watson collaborates with Kolassa, telling the tale of a woman's extravagant journey. Vince Johnson's harmonica adds a delightful touch to "If I Told You," a heartfelt piece about the difficulty of expressing love. "Hurt People" features the harmonious backing vocals of Reba Russell and Susan Marshall, creating an emotionally charged atmosphere.
"Mimphis Wood" introduces accordion, courtesy of Tas Cru, enriching the theme of lost love and the solace found in the music made with Memphis Wood. The lively "If Life Was Fair" bounces along with superb piano and guitar interplay, delivering the message that perseverance pays off in the end.
Kolassa keeps the spirits high with "Over My Shoulder," advising against dwelling on the past, while "One Hit Wonder" takes a humorous look at the artist's partying days. The album concludes with the whimsical "Gas Station Sushi," employing the kazoo for a playful touch.
Mick Kolassa's "Wooden Music" is a testament to his songwriting prowess, delivering a blend of introspective narratives, humor, and bluesy charm. The supporting cast of talented musicians, including Tas Cru, Vince Johnson, and Bob Corritore, enriches the sonic tapestry of each track. With its acoustic foundation, the album captures the raw essence of blues roots, creating an authentic and heartfelt listening experience.
In addition to enjoying a musical journey through blues traditions, listeners can take pride in supporting the noble causes championed by Kolassa, making "Wooden Music" not only a delightful sonic experience but also a contribution to the welfare of the blues community.
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