Blues Society of Western PA - Newsletter

You don’t piss into the wind, you don’t play leapfrog with unicorns, you don’t test the depth of the water with both feet and you don’t go to Memphis without saying hi to Barbara Blue. She has been a staple at Silky O’Sullivan’s for over 10 years for a good reason. She’s good and she entertains like few can. This CD helps bring that live feel to you.

The CD opens with an introduction by Silky himself. He says that her legend on Beale is that “She can make a glass eye cry”. She starts with her own, “Low down dirty dog”. There are fifteen selections in all, including classics: “Woman be Wise”, “Stormy Monday”, “Wang Dang Doodle.” Also included are those that we love to see her perform: “Toolbox Blues” and “Hound Dog”. Before the song, “That’s Not Your Baby,” she pays tribute to Garth Asmussen from the Pawnbrokers…Calling him one of the most underrated harmonica players. I agree, Barbara!

Some songs are just Barbara and her long time keyboard player, Nat Kerr. Others include, Lannie McMillan on sax and the very talented and very young [He may be able to drink legally now] Corey Osborn on guitar.

There is good reason she has this long running gig, her vocals are phenomenal; jaw dropping at times. One listen to “Oh Holy Night” and you will understand. She even sounds good when she starts that familiar “Here We Go Steelers” chant.

So, invite all of your rowdy friends over, load up on your favorite beverages and make a pot of Irish stew. When the mood strikes, play this CD, relax and enjoy. If you can’t come to Memphis, bring it home to you.

- Jim Weber