We recently posted this list on the CBA Facebook page. It received a thankful response from so many that we thought we would run it in the BluesNotes, too This list is a compilation of regional musicians who were nominated for the 2013 Muddy Awards. Though the final ballot is limited to only a few in each category, all of the following artists were recognized by our members in the ballots returned to us for nominations in the first round.
Tag Archive for: Ty Curtis
I’ve Had It
Boogie Boss Records
I’ve Had It is the debut release by the Hank Shreve Band, winners of the Cascade Blues Association’s Muddy Award for Best New Band in 2012. It is exactly what you were hoping for. Fast paced rhythms being driven by a terrific band with Hank front and center on voice, keys and razor-sharp harmonica. There is jumping blues and some mighty fine soulful tunes throughout a very nicely produced recording.
Hank Shreve was influenced immensely on the Mississippi saxophone by the likes of Paul deLay and Norton Buffalo and those impressions are quite noticeable in his performances. He has mastered that authentic deLay sound that is not the easiest approach on harmonica and there are not many who can master it as well as Hank. He also proves himself exceptionally well on keyboards and drums. The band is very tight, featuring his father Bill Shreve on bass, vocals and offering some tasteful songwriting of his own. Stan Welsh on guitar and Skip Jones fill out the band and there are also guest appearances by drummer Tim Donahue and Eugene’s legendary saxophonist Paul Biondi.
Song selections are mostly originals that most people who have followed Hank’s career starting with the Ty Curtis Band and then into his own solo foray will instantly recognize from his live performances. Numbers like his own composition’s “Boogie Boss” and “Real Kinda Thing,” along with covers of Roy Brown’s “Lollipop Mama” and K.C. Douglas’ “Mercury Blues” have long been staples in his set-lists. Newer tracks like the rock-blues of the title track “I’ve Had It” with its fine keyboard and guitar work and the New Orleans street parade-like “Street Light” are definitely shining pieces to the band’s repertoire. Stan Welsh’s guitar work really shines on the slower blues “Lover’s Holiday,” a piece co-written by Bill Shreve, who penned three of the songs on the album. I’ve Had It closes out with a Welsh-written instrumental shuffle “Sugar Bee Boogie” that highlights everybody in the band; a great way to close out this exceptional collection of music.
I’ve Had It may be a debut release, but it comes across as if this band were old hats in the studio with one another. Clearly one of the finest recordings to originate from the Northwest yet this year. Expect to find it on many best of lists at year’s end. Definitely a winning release from a band that is set to bring us all to attention very quickly.
Total Time: 46:31
Boogie Boss / I’ve Had It / Lovely One / Street Light / Lollipop Mama / I’m Good / Lover’s Holiday / Help Me Out / Real Kinda Thing / Tell Me Why / Mercury Blues / Sugar Bee Boogie
DAve Kahl
The last month has given me a lot to be thankful for. In light of my wife’s emergency, the outpouring of concern and love was astonishing and our family thanks you all. Add to this the news of my hearing-related issues and, again, the remarkable support and offers – I am breathless and affirmed. This is one incredible community.
Suggestions have been made and I’ve acted on all of them. I am certain that this old guy will see – and hear – some positive changes very soon. Thanks, again for your love. There are just too many of you to name, but you know who you are.
I’d like to take the opportunity to mention the two week night gigs that have held me up, have offered some great moments and memories, and that I’d like to see you attend. Tuesdays at 9pm, the Dover Weinberg Quartet at Duff’s Garage (corner of S.E. 7th Avenue and Market Street), with Chris Carlson, Kelly Dunn, and me, along with special guests, is happening. Looks good for this one to last through the end of the year, but it is certainly better when there are people to share with.
On Wednesdays, Blackwell’s (1815 N.E. 41st Avenue) hosts Soul Cookin’ with Lloyd Jones, Carlton Jackson, Dover Weinberg, and, again, me. Killing, stinky, greasy, funky blues and soul. Need I say more? Okay, how about some very talented guests, who just all happen to be musical friends. We’ve met some new ones on this gig, so the circle is getting bigger. We’d love to have you support this wonderful group of guys and this very cool venue.
I’d like to thank Ty Curtis and Bill Rhoades, especially for filling my calendar. Looks good for me to hook up for one night in September with Fiona Boyes and Jimi Bott. Although it’s in Illinois, hopefully we can find some compelling reason for Fiona to come to Portland.
That is all for now, but it’s more than enough. Thanks again.
David Kahl