Search - Ann Rabson :: In a Family Way

Family Blues

A. James Santella | Los Angeles | 10/07/2005

(5 out of 5 stars)

"With members of her family portraying the same deep blues, emotional spirit as she, vocalist/pianist Ann Rabson interprets several originals and a few covers of classic blues tunes. Best known as the gruff contralto voice of Saffire - The Uppity Blues Women, Rabson paints the blues with historical perfection. She's also an outstanding barrelhouse piano player and a unique finger-style guitarist. With her on this family album are her sister Mimi Rabson on violin, her brother-in-law Dave Harris on trombone, her nephew Kenji Rabson on upright bass, her brother Steve Rabson on piano, and her daughter Liz Rabson Schnore on guitar.



Rabson opens the program with two classic blues delights: "Little Red Wagon" and "See See Rider." Willie Dixon and Leroy Carr are also represented on this highly recommended program. The singer and her family capture the essence of each piece accurately and with expert musicianship. Each "sideman" has the same natural feel for the blues as the leader. Like the music of Saffire, her album reaches back to the origins of the blues and concentrates on a historical perspective. Even "I Want to Hop on Your Harley" reaches back to the days when a rollicking boogie-woogie piano and tailgate trombone could thrill live audiences every night of the week. Rabson and her family can do just that. You can hear audio samples from the album at www.emitdoog.com."

Wonderful music, lovingly performed

B.J. | Cincinnati, Ohio | 09/02/2005

(5 out of 5 stars)

""In a Family Way" is the latest, and possibly greatest, from Ann Rabson (a member of Saffire--The Uppity Blues Women). Great songs, well and sincerely performed, with some really great instrumental accompanyment, esp the trombone and fiddle (all provided by relations). She really makes the old standards come alive, and offers a few of her own which provide great insight and/or humor. What a treasure she is!!"