BEYOND THE CROSSROADS
PETER KARP SUE FOLEY
BLIND PIG RECORDS BPCD 5146
WE’RE GONNA MAKE IT–ANALYZE’N BLUES–BEYOND THE CROSSROADS–FINE LOVE–AT THE SAME TIME–TAKE YOUR TIME–MORE THAN I BARGAINED FOR–BLOWIN–RESISTANCE–CHANCE OF RAIN–PLANK SPANK–YOU’VE GOT A PROBLEM
In 2010, Peter Karp and Sue Foley were each going thru a difficult period in their lives. Both are incredible musicians and writers, and, they developed a physical relationship as wel during this timel. Their private letters and e-mails evolved into the songs that comprised their debut, “He Said, She Said,’ which was very well-received by fans and reviewers everywhere.
Their latest release, “Beyond The Crossroads,” is a natural continuation of the first set, only this one is full of songs of hope, positivity, and renewal. There are twelve originals, all composed either wholly or in part by Sue and Peter. And, these songs are crafted with the underlying theme of bringing the good times back, with a trumph over tragedy.
They both realize that times have been tough, but they vow “We’re Gonna Make It,” in the soulful, horn-filled leadoff cut. Peter’s jazzy piano over Sue’s acoustic guitar lead the way in the tale that reminds us that, no matter how good things might be going, there’s always that underlying “Chance Of Rain.” Both singers warn us of “tellin’ the truth, but living a lie” in “At The Same Time.’ This one has the Swingadelic Horn section backing, and it has the feel of a New Orleans dirge straight from Rampart Street! And, both dazzling guitarists strut their collective stuff in the fiery instrumental, “Plank Spank.”
We had two favorites, too. Peter and Sue are two players who believe that love is just a game for fools until they fall hard for each other, each one getting “More Than I Bargained For.” And, Peteer’s killer left hand drives the boogie piano on the rockin’ set-closer, “You’ve Got A Problem,” which features Sue on a sweet solo at the bridge.
Peter Karp and Sue Foley have turned “Beyond The Crossroads” into a celebration of their growing relationship, living it thru their songs and instrumentation, and blues fans are reaping the benefits! Until next time….Sheryl and Don Crow, Nashville Blues Society.
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