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Bonnie Bramlett and Mr. Grove Band
"Root, Blues and Jazz"
CD Review by Pat Benny
It's hard to believe that three year have passed since "Bonnie
Bramlett" released her groundbreaking CD, "I'm Still
the Same." It isn't often that a recording conveys the
soul of the artist to such a heartbreaking, spirit lifting degree
that touches the very essence of the listener, as well.
Every time I've listened to Bonnie sing the title song, I'd
wipe my eyes, catch my breath and wonder: what could Bonnie
possibly do next?
The answer is "Roots, Blues and Jazz," the newest
CD by Bonnie Bramlett and the Mr. Groove Band.
Released on the Zoho Roots label, the title is appropriate,
for the tracks range from old standards, such as "That
Lucky Old Sun" to Sam Cooke's "A Change is Gonna Come."
A quirky version of Chuck Berry's "No Particular Place
To Go" is preceded by "I Can Laugh About It Now,"
a fun shuffle with Bonnie reflecting on her past, while accompanied
by her daughter, Bekka.
If you have trouble imagining Bonnie crooning to Stephen Stills'
"Love the One You're With," you won't believe her
cover of that old hit by Nazareth, "Love Hurts."
"Roots, Blues and Jazz was recorded, for the most part,
at The Groovehouse in Nashville. The production values are first
rate, as are the members of The Mr. Groove Band"
Tim Smith--bass
Roddy Smith--guitars
Steve Willets--piano
Mark Stallings--Hammond Organ
Tim Gordon--saxophones and flute
Danny Marshall--drums and percussion
The band is as aptly named as the album, for whenever musicians
of this caliber get together in the studio, you can be sure
that there's gonna be a groove. Pick a guitar riff; focus your
attention on that gorgeous Hammond organ, or that sweet sax.
Or, just close your eyes, let these instruments merge with Bonnie
"The Voice" Bramlett and allow yourself to be carried
away on this magic tapestry of Roots, Blues and Jazz.
"I'm Still The Same" was a tough record to follow.
Perhaps "Roots, Blues and Jazz" didn't lay my heart
bare, but it is certainly a soothing salve for my weary soul.
A wonderful recording to groove on while waiting to see what
Bonnie Bramlett will do next.
www.bonniebramlett.com
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