Search - Various Artists, Carey Bell, Junior Wells :: Harp Attack

Essential Harmonica Recording

Alex | Colorado | 02/16/2001

(5 out of 5 stars)

"By the time I purchased this album I had already been playing harp for a few months, had heard several good recordings and was preparing to attend my first jam. This album forever altered my perspective. The harmonica here is 100% pure talent. This is the album the solidified my relationship with Blues Harp. The playing on this is simply stellar, and the choice of players offer a diverse approach to style, from Cotton's ferocious, high energy playing to Wells' more soulful, precise wails. Every song here offers something, from the blues party style of Down Home Blues to the mornful tones of Black Night. What really makes this album happen, though, is the obvious enjoyment these guys get from playing together (demonstrated well in My Eyes Keep Me In Trouble). If Junior Wells hadn't passed away I would say a follow up from this group was in order. But as long as I have this masterpiece, I'll be happy. If you like Blues Harp, GET THIS!"

Blues Harp At It's Best!

deepbluereview | SACRAMENTO, CALIFORNIA USA | 07/15/2002

(4 out of 5 stars)

"Harp Attack features 4 harp masters performing 11 songs for over 50 minutes of fabulous harp drenched blues. The disc also features an all star backing band featuring Lucky Peterson ("Double Dealin'") on piano, Michael Coleman ("Do Your Thing!") on guitar, Johnny B. Gayden on Bass and Ray "Killer" Allison on drums. Gayden and Allison are stalwarts of the blues and have backed up the likes of Johnny Winter, Son Seal, Larry McCray, Dave Hole, Buddy Guy and Don Griffin. The CD does an excellent job of maintaining cohesiveness, highlighting and then blending the various styles and vocals of these individuals without elevating the songs to jam status. While the disc does not break new ground, there is a lot of fun here."

Blows me away!

wrj@one.net | cincinnati, oh | 07/21/1998

(5 out of 5 stars)

"I can't imagine a better album demonstrating the power of electric blues in general or the force of the harp in particular. If there is such a thing as a perfect blues disc, this is it. Not only do the players reveal their awesome musical chops, but they let a bit of their stage personalities come through also."