Search - Fred Mcdowell :: Shake Em on Down

Blues from the heart

Damian P. Gadal | Santa Barbara, CA USA | 08/17/2008

(5 out of 5 stars)

"This is a live recording and a real joy to listen to. Mcdowell interacts with the audience and explains his take on the blues, singing and playing from the heart.



His playing is phenomenal. I bought this CD on a whim, and have no regrets. It's a great addition to my blues collection."

Mississippi Fred's Final Recording -- Wonderful and Bittersw

Mark L. Kaplan | 11/01/2009

(5 out of 5 stars)

"The best possible review of this wonderful session comes directly from the liner notes, written by the bass player on the date, Tom Pomposello: "It is not the easiest task for me to write the liner notes to a Mississippi Fred McDowell album, not without having them read like some kind of testimonial. It is especially difficult because this particular record turned out to be Fred's last recorded album, made during the end of his last tour during the winter of 1971 at the Gaslight in New York City. Nonetheless, this album becomes a tribute of sorts to one of America's greatest bluesmen. I will say that Fred McDowell was one of the most remarkable men I ever met. A more giving musician I cannot imagine. I believe this album captures one facet of a master bluesman at his best, performing to a small but enthusiastic audience, working for them and playing for them."



There's a "you are there" feeling to this date, as Fred talks quite a bit and shares some moving comments about his approach and perceptions of the blues -- invaluable insights from this giant. It's great to hear his hip and gentle voice, humorous with a depth of experience. Of course, the performances are exquisite -- I won't make myself sound foolish by fishing for adjectives that can't come close to describing the performances. One thing I will say: NO ONE played more from the heart than Mississippi Fred McDowell, and this date epitomizes that quintessential quality of great blues. Cop this date, my brothers and sisters!"