Customer Reviews

Blowin Like Hell

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William Clarke (along with paul Butterfield, Big Walter horton and a handful of others) was one of the few guys who brought their own idiosyncratic style to the blues harp. Most players tend to blast what they've heard on the old Chicago blues records that they love- nuthin wrong with that, per se... But Clarke definitely had his own style. Also, Clarke wrote pretty much most of his own tunes and they're sweet- the man knew his own thang.

On this one- he truly cooks. This is an overlooked and underrated blues classic that blues harp aficianados (msp?) of all caliber should pick up. The rhythm section burns and cooks and the harp is CHOICE. This is one of the two first albums (along with 'Serious Intentions') that Clarke cut for Alligator. I think all of his gator releases are worth a listen, but this is my hands down favorite. Great notes, never sloopy. Clarke was heavily influenced by George "harmonica" Smith, who was a vet of the Muddy waters band. He was also influenced by organ playing, of all things- guys like Jimmy McGriff and Richard "Groove" Holmes (the Beastie Boys penned an instrumental track with his name on it). He was from ali, not Chi-town and that Cali-soul thing is one of the forms that animates his playing. You may think, "huh?" but give this a listen- his style is 100% SOUL. Great blues style. Inimitable!

Who knows where he would have gone? The man was only 45 yrs. old when he died. Damn.

This is Clarke's best album combining his awesome harp. with swing and slowly executed blues. I'm a big blues fan and I feel this is one of the all time great CDs. William Clarke we miss you.

Of Course William Clarke was a terrific blues harp player as this CD well documents. That being said, guitar players will LOVE this CD for the exceptional guitar playing of Alex Schultz. The opening track, "Lollipop Mama" is a clinic in west coast jump blues phrasing. If you are unfamiliar with Alex he is out of the Hollywood Fats, Junior Watson, Rick Holmstrom, Little Charlie Baty camp and he is VERY tasty. If you play or just really like blues guitar but do not usually buy CD's by harp players, buy this one!!

William Clarke was a great harp player. What a loss! I listen to alot of blues-harmonica music and this is by far the best!

Oh man, this is a groove that just won't stop. Alex Schultz is ALWAYS great on guitar and Clarke blew some great harp. RIP William.

Clarke was one of those West Coast harp players who fell under the influence of Chicago bluesmen like Little Walter, Junior Wells, Charlie Musselwhite and both Sonny Boy Williamsons. This album is pure, raw blues harp, although some tracks, such as "Greasy Gravy" (you gotta love a tune called "Greasy Gravy")and "Must Be Jelly" ("Well, it have must been jelly baby, 'cause jam don't shake that thang") have definite jazz influences. I mean, some of these tunes really swing. Other great tunes include "Lonesome Bedroom Blues", "Cash Money" and "Drinking By Myself". Too bad Clarke's left us; he was good and bluesmen are becoming fewer and fewer. A fresh talent; this CD is highly recommended for anyone who likes blues harp.