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Brownie McGhee said ‘Blues is truth’ and here is the truth in spades. This is an award winner
in every way, and there is little doubt that when the awards season starts, later this year or
early next, Mr Musselwhite will be walking to the podium very, very frequently.
Ian K McKenzie
Debra Power—I’m Not From Chicago—Independent
Debra is a powerhouse (pun intended). A truly independent
artist in the best sense of the word, she produces outstanding
piano based music, full of swing, enthusiasm and joy.
As is common place these days, there was an early single release
anticipating the full album and Debra’s songwriting (already
award winning) produced the hit single, ‘What Colour Is Love’.
The song became a theme during Black History Month in
February this year (in North America) its powerful message,
delivered by two of the finest voices in blues today, Debra
Power and Keeshea Pratt.
Other tracks include ‘Hardwired for the Blues’, a rollicking, boogie based treat and ‘Debra
Marie’ a delightful autobiographical piece. Check out too the title track ‘I’m Not From Chicago’
a wonderful, stomping, walking blues based firmly on the ubiquitous Elmore James riff and
real fun, fun, fun.
Debra’s previous albums, “Even Redheads Get The Blues” and “That’s How I Roll” are a double
delight and you can add this one to the mix; now it’s a triple threat, keys, songwriting and a
voice to die for.
Some enterprising entrepreneur (not me I am sorry to say - I would if I could) must get her
across the Atlantic ASAP! I for one can’t wait to see/hear her live.
Ian K McKenzie
Ritchie Dave Porter and Debra Susan—You Make Me Feel
Bad In A Good Way—Single (Independent)
Not that long ago, Ritchie Dave Porter was an outstanding
acoustic artist, making a name for himself as a solo artist. Then
two things happened—I’m not sure in what order—he met
Debra Susan and he discovered Telecasters.
I hope the acoustic music is not done, but in his (their) current
iteration, there is a return to Ritchie’s basic love, the music of
Led Zeppelin, Jimmy Page and classic rock and it really hits the
spot. The duo with added bass and drums produce a BIG sound
with some excellent power chording from Ritchie and soaring
vocals—reminding me of Janice and Grace Slick—from Debra Susan. Way to go you two.
Album please.
Ian K McKenzie