Steve Maddock - The Blues Project (2021) [Official Digital Download 24/96]

In the mid 1960's, there was a Greenwich Village, NYC pop band called The Blues Project which was primarily informed by folk, rhythm & blues, jazz and pop music of the day. One of their early success was entitled "Flute Thing," a tune from the group's 1966 album Projections (Verve / Folkways). Keyboardist / vocalist Al Kooper, a founding member of The Blues Project, wrote "Flute Thing." He went on, in 1967, to found the pop-rock band Blood, Sweat & Tears.

Why vocalist Steve Maddock chose to name this album The Blues Project is not entirely clear. But what seems evident is that the music is more closely aligned to blues singers such as Joe Williams, Jimmy Witherspoon and Eddie "Cleanhead" Vinson than any tangential connection to The Blues Project.

With several arrangements from guitarist and producer Bill Coon, Maddock and the band delve into many familiar blues themes beginning with "Everyday I Have The Blues/All Blues." With the Miles Davis' "All Blues" riff underpinning the arrangement, Maddock delves into the familiar lyrics and refrain of "Everyday" with polish and warmth. Pianist Chris Gestrin, tenor saxophonist Cory Weeds and trumpeter Brad Turner provide well thought-out fills throughout the number.

In 1950, blues and soul singer Percy Mayfield wrote "Please Send Me Someone To Love." Maddock's version—following a lengthy soulful opening from pianist Gestrin, and in spite of occasionally treacly lyrics—contains a restrained emotional commitment to the interpretation. Fortunately no insulin injection will be required after listening to this track.

"Cleanhead" Vinson's "Backdoor Blues" is given a delightful rollicking treatment as it opens with the following line: "Well I took the front door in/But I had to take the backdoor out." Maddock and the band settle into a catchy blues groove as he tells the story of trouble waiting behind a closed door.

TRACKLIST

1. Steve Maddock - Everyday/all Blues
2. Steve Maddock - Turnaround (If You're with Me, Today Will Last Forever)
3. Steve Maddock - My Funny Valentine
4. Steve Maddock - Please, Send Me Someone to Love
5. Steve Maddock - Liars' Club
6. Steve Maddock - Backdoor Blues
7. Steve Maddock - Let Me Out
8. Steve Maddock - God Bless the Child
9. Steve Maddock - Au Privave
10. Steve Maddock - Alright, Ok, You Win



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