Mike Bourne Band Featuring Johnny Burgin – Cruisin’ Kansas City
13 tracks
In the heartland of blues, where the spirit of Kansas City's rich musical history reverberates through every note, Mike Bourne, along with the seasoned musicians of the Mike Bourne Band, embarks on a sonic journey with the album "Cruisin' Kansas City" under the banner of Blue Heart Records.
Making the Missouri area his blues haven, Bourne pays homage to the legends who shaped his musical path, with a nod to mentors like Abb Locke and Lee McBee. The album is a testament to his journey, from his days at Lindsay Shannon's BBs Lawnside to his current stature as a blues maestro.
The Baker's Dozen of tracks features an ensemble of musical talents, including the renowned Johnny Burgin on guitar, Dave Creighton, and Johnny Iguana on keyboards, and a host of other special guests adding their magic to the mix. The result is a harmonious blend of blues, rock, and R&B that captures the essence of Kansas City's musical legacy.
The album kicks off with the titular track, "Cruisin' Kansas City," a swinging instrumental that showcases Bourne's guitar prowess. The cool organ accompaniment adds an extra layer of enjoyment, setting the stage for what unfolds as a musical feast.
"Lose Your Rings, Keep Your Fingers" follows, a lively shuffle with a playful take on breakups, featuring standout performances on tenor sax and guitar. "Humpty Dumpty" injects a dose of boogie into the nursery rhyme, creating a cool blend of sax, guitar, and organ that keeps the energy flowing.
The slow shuffle of "Golden Rule" sees well-greased harp taking center stage, while "Help Somebody" brings a gospel touch to the proceedings, with sax and guitar leading the way. "Hollow Man" pays homage to Chicago Blues, offering a slick throwback to Muddy Waters' iconic sound.
"Two Young To Be Old" captures a Chicago feel, with the organ and guitar trading solos seamlessly. "Loose With The Truth" is a swinging mid-tempo piece featuring beautiful trumpet work, while "Missouri Boy" rocks and rollicks with honky-tonk flavor and rockabilly guitar licks.
"Running Song" delves into life's rat race, with organ and guitar once again taking the spotlight. The R&B ballad "The One" brings sentimental beauty with a touch of the 1950s, and "Dangerous Game" howls with emotion, reminiscent of the Stones' gritty style.
The album concludes with the poignant "Kansas City Grease," a fine tribute to old bandmates featuring Big D and Rob Lorenz. The piano, harp, and guitar effortlessly ooze grease in this superb instrumental track, wrapping up Bourne's homage to Kansas City.
Mike Bourne, a seasoned craftsman of the blues, delivers an album that not only adds to the storied history of Kansas City's music but also stands as a testament to his decades of experience and talent. "Cruisin' Kansas City" is a captivating blues odyssey that will undoubtedly resonate with blues enthusiasts, a soulful testament to the enduring spirit of Kansas City's musical legacy. Well done indeed!
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