ERIN HARPE AND THE DELTA SWINGERS
LOVE WHIP BLUES
JUICY JUJU–VIZZTONE RECORDS VTJJ001
DELTA SWING–LOVE WHIP BLUES–FUTURE BLUES–GOOD LUCK BABY–M AND O BLUES–ONE WAY MAN–PICK POOR ROBIN CLEAN–VIRTUAL BOOTY BLUES–CHARLES RIVER DELTA BLUES–ANGEL FROM MONTGOMERY
Erin Harpe And The Delta Swingers combine Depression-era juke joint blues with a more modern, contemporary sound that makes for a highly-danceable ride with that vintage feel. That’s what you get from “Love Whip blues,” their latest set for the Vizztone label.
Erin, who now resides in the Boston area after growing up in Washington, D. C., possesses one of those sexy, sultry, just-made-for-blues voices that you just can’t resist. She’s also joined by some of Vizztone’s most “vizzable” players, including Richard Rosenblatt on harp, and Bob Margolin on guitar. Dave Gross also brings his expertise to this music, adding various instrumentation throughout.
The set starts with the acoustic theme of “The Delta Swing,” setting the tone for the rest of the album. Erin describes herself as a “little booty machine” in the saucy title cut, then adds a gem of funky soul with “Good Luck Baby.” And, that sultry side shows on the slow-drag of “Charles River Delta Blues.”
We had two favorites, too. Bob’s slide and Rosy’s harp lay down a sweet groove as Erin bemoans that “train that took my baby away,’ “M and O Blues.” The set closes with a harp-filled romp thru John Prine’s “Angel From Montgomery,” showing Erin’s versatility at adapting songs to make them her own.
Erin Harpe And The Delta Swingers are one more reason that the blues stays interesting and viable. “Love Whip Blues” is fun, irreverent, and a fine showcase for an outstanding singer! Until next time…Sheryl ad Don Crow, The Nashville Blues Society.
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