Howard
& The White Boys
Made In Chicago
Evidence Music Inc.
www.howardandthewhiteboys.net
By James “Skyy Dobro” Walker
9 songs; 48:13 minutes; Splendid Contemporary Blues; Blues-Rock
Dear Abby, er, I mean, Skyy,
I need your advice for some party music. Here’s
the scene: 10 -15 people, singles and couples, at our house for a
Saturday night soirée. Early on, I want to play great music,
preferably Blues, but not slow Blues, nor deep music that requires
intent contemplation of the lyrics. This should be a lively party
with plenty of conversation, laughter, cocktails, and snacks. I need
upbeat contemporary music, yet with a familiar sound providing an
energetic back drop for the festivities and a good back beat for
those dancing. What can you recommend to kick start this event?
Sincerely, Euell B. Envited
Dear Euell,
Great name, by the way. Your parents must have
had quite a sense of humor. Glad you asked as I have the perfect
party album, Made In Chicago by Howard & The White Boys. Here
is a CD guaranteed to jump start any “soirée” (whatever that is –
sounds kinky).
The album blasts off with a cover of ZZ Top’s
“She Loves My Automobile.” Lead guitarist (and producer) Rocco
Calipari rips several scorching runs while band namesake and founder
Howard McCullum on bass joins Jim Christopulos on drums for a
popping rhythm. Watch a guest or two play air-piano based on Daryl
Coutts keyboards as he coordinates with second guitarist Pete
Galanis.
The second song slows the tempo just enough to
allow guests to “Walk Away” to refill their drinks. Coutts’ organ
beside Calipari’s guitar opens this song, one of two originals in
the nine numbers. Show off some shuffling footwork as the soaring
guitar fills the bridge.
Be prepared for someone to ask, “What is he
saying about barbeque?” during the third number. Explain that, “some
folks like steak and potatoes,...but my baby gives me ‘Good Booty
and BBQ.’” Leave the rest to their imaginations while Calipari and
Galanis trade call-and-response guitar licks.
The only song even close to slow Blues is track
seven, “Cold Cold Feeling.” Howard pours out his finest vocals over
his gut bottom bass and rhythm keys provided by guest Dave Friebolin.
Calipari and Galanis melt guitar strings with emotive leads during
two bridges. By this point, the hooch will be happening enough to
nuzzle some neighbor nooky during a slow dance.
The fun the musicians are having on this CD
should transport over to your astral affair like Scotty beaming you
down another scotch. Fun was the intent, witness guitarist Rocco
Calipari describing Made In Chicago as “Some of our favorite
tunes by other artists, but done in our own way.” As a Blues fan,
you’ll enjoy their covers of a steady shuffling “Yonder Wall,” a
full-sound production of “I’m In a Phone Booth Baby,” and an up
tempo “Black Cat Bone.”
Have a blast, Skyy
James “Skyy Dobro” Walker is a
noted Blues writer and Blues Blast contributor
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