Funky Blues

Back in July I went to Chicago to visit a friend, buy records, and eat red hots. That trip started my quest for funky blues music. There were a few things that started this kick. First of all, I saw Kid Koala spin an awesome set that had some great blues tunes. Then, my friend Matt and I went to a little record sale in some guys basement in Wrigleyville. I picked up this Etta James Cover of "I Got You Babe". I remember once I dropped the needle from some guy's portable onto the record everyone's ears kind of perked up. While trying to avoid knocking my head on the low beams in the basement I was told to ALWAYS pick up Etta James records that are on Cadet. Not bad advice. I also pick up Etta James records when they're on Chess which is why I have the track "All the Way Down Slow" from her 1973 self titled album.

I've also included a track by Little Sonny from his album "New King of the Blues Harmonica." I picked this record up hoping for funky blues and got it. It's on the Enterprise label which is part of Stax records. Isaac Hayes's records are usually on Enterprise. Well, the entire album has got that Memphis feel to it. I also suspect that the backing band on this album is the Bar-Kays, but I can't confirm this because I'm too lazy to do all of the research.

Finally, big ups to Soul Shower for putting up a link to my blog and sending some traffic over here. You suckas just need to start posting some comments and I'll be able to sleep at night.

I Got You Babe by Etta James from Tell Mama: The Complete Muscle Shoals Sessions
All the Way Down by Etta James from Etta James


Eli's Pork Chop by Little Sonny from The New King of the Blues Harmonica