LivinBlues- CD reviews - Taxi Chain and David Jacobs-Strain

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LivinBlues CD Reviews by Gary Tate -Jacobs-Strain on the Taxi Chain - back to archive

TAXI CHAIN: SMARTEN UP (NORTHERNBLUES)
For those interested in discovering out how malleable the Blues are, 'Smarten Up' by Taxi Chain is probably as fine an example of extreme genre bending as can be imagined, featuring bagpipes no less. In less competent hands it might have collapsed under the weight of its extended reach, but Taxi Chain is an exceptional outfit that has been sharpening its aim for nigh on a decade, finding a formula that works in combining Celtic-spirited rhythms with Blues and Soul. Taxi Chain has become synonymous with partying hard and partying long,

Titles such as 'Tandoori Mustache', might be a little off-putting. No need to fear though, virtually all are accessible, and anything in 'Smarten Up' is far more valid and smarter (no pun intended) than much of what purports to be Blues today. In the highly capable hands of Grier Coppins, the Scottish saxophone proves to be more adaptable than expected, while providing a haunting undertow. Actually, the most predominant instrument is the regular saxophone, as handled with assurance by Joe Burns. 'Memphis' is one of the most compelling tracks to herald a recording project, invoking the holy ghosts that have left their imprint there (Otis Redding, Elvis). 'Cut Me A Key', also insinuates its way into the subconscious. As for 'James Brown Ate My Bagpipe' it could have been sub-titled 'The Funky MacIntosh'. 'Smarten Up' is on the leading edge of Blues inventiveness. MP3- Memphis | James Brown Ate My Bagpipe | surf to www.taxichain.com

DAVID JACOBS-STRAIN: OCEAN OR A TEARDROP (NORTHERNBLUES)
Acoustic prodigy David Jacobs-Strain might be only 21-years of age, but he convincingly conveys such a wide pallet of emotions, that his youthfulness seems a mere afterthought. His Blues are intended as passionate vehicles for the expression of his inner life, and not as some excuse for partying opportunities. Moreover, it's uplifting when you get to hear a young musician who is not only extremely talented, but also has a unique sound that is immediately identifiable.

'Ocean Or A Teardrop' is his second release on NorthernBlues, and like his debut- 'Stuck On The Way Back'-it was recorded in Santa Fe, NM, a very apt location, since several offerings have themes of isolation. There are 3 traditional Blues numbers, including a terrific version of Fred McDowell's 'Kokomo Blues'. 'Girl I Love' by John Estes features some superb slide guitar, and a very powerful version of 'Soul of A Man' by legend Blind Willie Johnson. 'Sleepless Dream' features David seamlessly crossing over into pop music territory, without the slightest hint of compromise. By carving out his own distinctive niche as a traditional Blues artist with insights into contemporary political and social issues, Jacobs-Strain is bound to draw comparisons with the likes of John Hammond Jr., Taj Mahal, but mainly Otis Taylor-whom he and David share a common linkage in producer Kenny Pasarelli. 'Ocean or a Teardrop' is destined to attract a tidal wave of positive attention.MP3- Ocean or a Teardrop | surf to www.davidjacobs-strain.com