Customer Reviews

Thank You St. Jude

5 star:		(2)
4 star:		(0)
3 star:		(0)
2 star:		(0)
1 star:		(0)

 

 

I bought this one after attending a show in a tiny venue in November. The concert was cut short because of another show that was due to start, but when I pop this one in, it's as if the show continues. And with a fiddle! I enjoy his new interpretations of old gems like "Put Down the Gun" and "Poor Old Tom," and the new originals and covers fit right in. It's like spending an evening on Case's porch.

While all but a handful of these songs are simply stripped down versions of songs previously released on earlier Peter Case albums (six come from his stellar 1989 BLUE GUITAR album), in some ways these are the definitive versions. Tracks 1-11 were recorded in a single day with the Peter Case on guitar and harmonica joined by David Perales on violin and harmony vocals.

The album kicks off with a rollicking version of "Ice Water" from Case's 1986 self-titled debut. The violin on "Beyond the Blues" only deepens the melancholy on this track originally on the under-rated SIX PACK OF LOVE. Highlights from BLUE GUITAR that get revisited include "Put Down the Gun," "Two Angels," "Travellin' Light" and "Poor Old Tom."

In addition to reworking old favorites, Case includes five new recordings. Three of these are covers: John Estes' "Someday Blues," the Kentucky Ramblers' "Ginseng Blues" and Charlie Poole's "Leavin' Home"--all from 1928. The two new original songs are the hard-driving "One More Mile" (which includes bass and drums), and "4th of July/Christmas Rag" (co-written with Bob Neuwirth).

Case is one of the best singer/somgwriters of his generation. If you don't already own anything by this gifted artist, this is a great place to start. If you're already a fan, this belongs in your collection. VERY HIGHLY RECOMMENDED. [Running Time - 48:14]