Search - Memphis Slim :: I'll Just Keep on Singin the Blues

Potent, better-than-average Memphis Slim

Tim Weber | Iowa | 07/12/2000

(4 out of 5 stars)

"Three cheers to 32 Blues for again giving us a fine reissue at a magnificent price. This disc from piano blues giant Memphis Slim is from 1961, and a prime recording it is. Slim had re-teamed with his 1950s guitar foil, Matt "Guitar" Murphy, and the magic is still there. Murphy stings with some sensational guitar licks on this band-oriented recording. This is not a "piano blues" album as such; yes, Slim plays piano, of course, but he doesn't solo and except for the introductions, his instrument is kept in the background. That's OK, though. His smooth/strident, city/country vocals are great and the band is slammin'. The only problems are average sound (some hiss and crackle) and short CD length. Still, solid stuff from possibly the most-recorded piano bluesman of all time."

Slim with the great Guitar Murphy

Bomojaz | South Central PA, USA | 09/04/2006

(4 out of 5 stars)

"This album was recorded in Chicago in 1961 and was originally on the Strand label, later reissued on Muse. Along with Slim it features the legendary guitarist Matt Murphy, who later went on to play with James Cotton and the Blues Brothers. For good measure John Calvin's alto sax, Johnny Board's tenor (referred to as "Junior" by slim), and a rhythm section of Sam Chatman and Billy Stepney are also part of the proceedings. COLD BLOODED WOMAN has an excellent Murphy solo, and FOUR WALLS has a very strong down-home feel to it. Slim's vocals are powerfull and searching, while his distinctive rolling piano style is always captivating. The band is tight, and the sax solos by Calvin and Board cut to the quick and are very emotional. Dig the Latin tinge on I'M LOST WITHOUT YOU, and I'm still wondering WHAT (the heck) IS THE MARE RACK? Not quite as good as the United sides Slim made with Murphy about 7 years earlier, but it's good all the same."