Mitch Woods – Friends Along The Way
Club 88 Records – 2023
CD1: 10 tracks - 49 minutes
CD2: 11 tracks - 42 minutes
In the vast landscape of blues, Mitch Woods stands as a maestro of the piano, and his latest release, "Friends Along The Way," is a testament to his remarkable musical journey. Originally launched in 2017 and now reissued with additional tracks, this double-disc album is a celebration of camaraderie, featuring an impressive lineup of guest musicians who join Woods in a series of duo and trio performances.
Disc one kicks off with the legendary Van Morrison and Taj Mahal on Lead Belly's "Take This Hammer," infusing a gospel-inspired touch to the blues. The duo shines on Leroy Carr's "Midnight Hour Blues," where Van's vocals soar alongside Woods' piano artistry. The blues standard "CC Rider" sees both Morrison and Taj Mahal sharing vocal duties, creating a dynamic performance.
Drummer Larry Vann joins forces with Elvin Bishop on Oliver Perry's "Keep A Dollar In Your Pocket" and Jimmy Liggins' "Saturday Night Boogie-Woogie Man," injecting a dose of excitement into the album. Kenny Neal's "Blues Mobile" features Larry Vann on drums as Kenny showcases his vocal, harp, and guitar skills.
The album takes a delightful turn with Ruthie Foster's emotional rendition of "Singin' The Blues," a perfect blend of Mitch's delicate piano and Foster's powerful vocals. The spoken history of blues unfolds with Cyril Neville's captivating narrative on "The Blues," a collaborative effort with Taj Mahal.
Blues luminaries continue to make their mark on disc one, with John Hammond's steel guitar infusing a Delta feel into "Mother-In-Law Blues," Joe Louis Walker's standout duet on Champion Jack Dupree's "Nasty Boogie," and Maria Muldaur channeling Bessie Smith on "Empty Bed Blues." Charlie Musselwhite appears twice, contributing to Mitch's "Cryin' For My Baby" and the autobiographical "Blues Gave Me A Ride."
Disc two introduces five previously unreleased tracks, offering a fresh perspective and extending the joyous collaboration. Cyril Neville's heartfelt delivery on "Blues For New Orleans" reflects on the city's struggles, accompanied by Mitch's superb New Orleans piano style. Kenny Neal's warning in "Don't Dip In My Bizness" is underscored by jagged piano and guitar lines over steady drums.
Maria Muldaur returns in a different style on Mitch's composition, "Mojo Mambo," which pays homage to New Orleans. The album takes a nostalgic turn with John Hammond's rendition of "Southbound Blues," transporting listeners back to the roots of the blues. Joe Louis Walker closes the album with a convincing performance of Lightnin' Hopkins' "Worried Life Blues," playing acoustic guitar alongside Mitch's piano.
"Friends Along The Way" is a testament to Mitch Woods' mastery, and the diverse array of artists featured underscores his influential presence in the blues community. The album, with its rich tapestry of musical collaborations, showcases the joy, passion, and enduring spirit of the blues—a celebration of friendships that have stood the test of time.
Commentaires