James Cotton

Baby, Don’t You Tear My Clothes
James Cotton
Telarc

King of the “Mississippi Saxophone,” harpist James Cotton largely defined — along with contemporaries Little Walter and Charlie Musselwhite — just how blues harmonica should sound. From his time with Sonny Boy Williamson’s band to the classic combo with Muddy Waters in the ’60’s, Cotton has always been a steady, exciting performer. Although he no longer sings, he has friends enough to make up for that. Luminaries such as Doc Watson, Bobby Rush, Dave Alvin and the wonderful Marcia Ball add their talents to his new release, and the result is enjoyable. Not as up-tempo and driving as his earlier work, the 13 cuts here give Cotton and his guests room to stretch out and shine. Rory Block’s “Mississippi Blues” is a particular standout, but all of the cuts have much to offer a blues fan looking for “the real stuff.”

Originally published Ink 19, 2004

Otis Spann

Best of the Vanguard Years
Otis Spann
Vanguard

Simply put, Otis Spann is the blues piano player. A member of Muddy Waters band from 1953 to 1969, Spann was the man at the ivories for such classics as “Got My Mojo Working,” “She’s Nineteen Years Old,” and “Hoochie Coochie Man,” among others. As a session man, he played on Howlin’ Wolf’s “Back Door Man” and “Spoonful,” as well as cuts by Little Walter and Sonny Boy Williamson. Listening to the 18 cuts on this CD, it’s easy to see why. With his barrelhouse piano style and forceful vocals, Spann had the goods to be more than a sideman, as a spin of “S.P Blues” will show. You hear traces of Professor Longhair, along with a bit of Chicago 12-bar stride. Previously unreleased cuts such as “My God” and “He’s Got the Whole World In His Hands” document Spann’s affinity for gospel music, the backbone of the blues. This is the real thing.

Originally published Ink 19, 1999