GRADY CHAMPION - Back in Mississippi Live at the 930 Café, GSM 7400
I don’t listen to rap music, so I am very happy that Grady Champion left his rapping career behind to offer up some blues. He has the blues thing down pretty good, as witnessed by his recent International Blues Challenge crown at the finals in Memphis. If you are not familiar with Grady and his band, this CD is a great way to explore his powerful brand of blues.
What you hear at this performance is The Grady Champion Revue featuring the wailing guitar melodies of Eddie Cotton, Jr. There is a little bit of swing, a lot of soul, and a mix of classic blues covers and Grady Champion originals. “Brother, Brother” is a stand-out showcase of his songwriting skill that will surely induce repeat listens. Covers include Willie Dixon’s “I’m Ready” and a two-fer of Jimmy Reed. Another Dixon song, “Spoonful” is erroneously credited to Chester Barnett, a.k.a. Howlin’ Wolf, but it is a howlin’ good version, wherein Grady shows his pleasant demeanor as he playfully addresses the crowd.
Did I mention that Grady sings and plays harmonica? Although his vocals may sound at times like he is being strangled, what you are hearing is really pure emotion. His harp playing is always note-for-note the perfect accompaniment, yet overall, it is somewhat sparse. With Cotton’s guitar fills, and the keyboard work of Calvin Wilson, there is never a dull moment.
You will find one snippet of rap on this disc, but I’m looking forward to more of his blues.
~ Jim Capp
