IT is 20
years ago that south coast blues legends Pete Harris and Bob Pearce shared the same
stage. But the reunion could light the blue touch paper for regular blues
nights at Southampton’s latest major music venue with musicians from both sides
of the Big Pond.
And the
1865 club has already pulled off a major coup by signing Mud Morganfield –
eldest son of the undisputed king of the blues Muddy Waters – who will be
headlining on May 9.
It was a
full house as The Pete Harris R&B All Stars and Bob Pearce Blues Band
served up a double helping of tantalising blues. With a career spanning more
than 50 years Bob, known as Southampton’s King of The Blues, opened the show
with a powerful cocktail of blues, rock and gospel.
His set
included Keep On Keepin’ On the title track to his much acclaimed 1993 album. He
invited his soul mate Pete Harris on stage for their first jam session for 20
years, which included Chicken Shack Boogie, Elvis Presley’s Little Sister and
Chuck Berry’s Johnny B Goode.
As well as
nearly lifting the rafters it was the cue for the jivers to fill the dance
floor. And the party continued as The Pete Harris Band took centre stage with a
blistering blues session, sprinkled with some rock ‘n roll.
Pete, who
has appeared with a glittering galaxy of American blues artistes, gave a master
class in vocals and guitar. One of the highlights was one of the first blues
standards and a Bessie Smith favourite, Ain’t Nobody’s Business. He also joined
forces in note perfect harmonies with the latest addition to his multi-talented
band, Jeradine Hume, who captivated the audience with her powerful and soulful
vocal style.
It is
incredible to think that her first public appearance was only a year ago but
when it comes to singing the blues she is a born natural. That was clearly
demonstrated with I’m A Woman, a blues classic from the song book of Queen of
the Blues Koko Taylor. It has become a big hit for Jeradine on YouTube. For
Elvis fans there was Hound Dog but Jeradine chose the version by Big Mama
Thornton.
The
reunion of the south’s soul legends hit all the right notes as the blues took
off in spectacular style at the 1865.
No comments:
Post a Comment