Blues Historian Review: The 44s, Americana

The 44s from southern California has a new release called Americana.  The cd is produced and features Kid Ramos (who is no kid anymore:-)  I remember the first time I saw Kid Ramos playing with James Harmon, not sure if it was a full time gig, or if he was setting in, but the Kid was on fire.  In fact the 44s remind me of James Harmon from the bad old days. Tight band, playing a nice selection of songs, and styles, yet  sounding like themselves. Slow blues, shuffles, slide guitar, just about anything you want to hear.  All but two of the 13 songs are original.  The guitar playing is exceptional and seamless.  The harp playing by Tex Nakamra is exceptional.  Great collection of blues for any occasion. Their cd is available on both Amazon and Itunes.

TJ Hooker: Get Your Money Right

This is a great video from T J Hooker. This was shot on the corner of the legendary 18th and Vine in Kansas City Missouri. It is great to see Kansas City blues back on the map! I worked a block away from there at the old Attucks Elementary school back in 1989-90. I used to take the kids out to the playground and we would draw what was left of the old business district. I must say that the place looks a lot better today than it did when I was down there.

I also have to say that CDS records is really doing a great job releasing a ton of great artists young and old. These guys are working overtime to save the blues! Do yourself a favor and buy three or four of their great cds! Click HERE to check out the online store.