Browne, Michael Jerome1998Productions Bros.BROS-8002-2

Browne, Michael Jerome - 1998 - Productions Bros. - BROS-8002-2

Written by Calvin Daniels

Well there is no denying Michael Jerome Browne gives you good value for your money on this one with 19 songs that provide a full 55-minutes of music. That's substantial by any standard.

Browne offers up a surprisingly varied blues offering here. It starts out solidly in the realm of acoustic guitar blues. Some songs, such as Reuben, go to the deep south for its roots and is actually played on a 19th century African-American five-string gourd banjo. The use of this vintage instrument adds to the richness of the material.

Sandy River Belles is an Appalachian fiddle tune Browne takes to the banjo with great success. Other music comes from more recent historical times, such as Wartime Blues, inspired by World War I and originally performed by Texas' Blind Lemon Jefferson.

It's the history, wrapped by many of these songs, which is most compelling. The method in which Browne makes the music relevant for today's listener is a credit both to his skill, and the timelessness of the music itself.

It is also fascinating how Browne reaches into the land of Cajun music on this album. While not necessarily the top style on the list when it comes to analyzing roots blues, there is a soulful quality to Louisiana music that fits nicely on this album. It helps expand the focus of the CD with songs such as Les Plats Tous Mis Sur la Table and La Danse.

At other times, Browne moves into a more experimental mode such as on Manic Depression. Browne describes this track as "Leadbelly meets Jimi Hendrix" and he turns to a 12-string guitar to pull it off.

Noted piano man Van Walls is a guest on Gambling Blues, Walk On and I Want to Go Home, and his participation adds a nice touch.

This is an album that has grown on me with each listen, and garners a solid review from my better half too, so who am I to argue. If your blues is best enjoyed with a healthy helping of roots influences, this is an excellent release, with few if any weak spots.

Copyright 2003. Review by Calvin Daniels.

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