Pryor, SnookyCan't Stop Blowin'Electro-Fi Records3359

Pryor, Snooky - Can't Stop Blowin' - Electro-Fi Records - 3359

Written by Warren Dallin

Can't Stop Blowin' is an apt title for this powerful recording from James Edward "Snooky" Pryor.

The energy from this Mississippi-born, post-war Chicago-bred harp innovator surpasses that of a man half his age. This is definitely his best recording in his 50-plus years of playing the blues. This also happens to be his first Canadian recording, backed by some fine Canadian talent including his long-time friend Mel Brown.

Pryor repeatedly encourages Brown to "work it" and "lay it on him" on each and every guitar solo throughout the CD. You certainly will value hearing Brown deliver slow-but-intense intricacies within these extended solos. You will also appreciate the piano playing of Tyler Yarema and Michael Fonfara, both of whom deliver a derivative of some vigorous ragtime plunking. Their contributions enhance the overall attitude of the songs.

Yet, there is no question Pryor takes ultimate command of his songs (including a bevy of originals) with prolific use of his trademark slurring of chord slides on the harmonica. He also tends to pronounce his lyrics with force and even the occasional shout. The natural aura of studio banter from this session is present since most tracks were captured off-the-mark.

The songs Slow Down and Ain't Nobody's Business are the highlights of this disc. They tend to be blues stomps full of subdued intensity. Boots 'n' Saddle presents an awesome display of talent from this pioneer of the amplified harmonica and originator of third- position harp playing. An eerie solo track, it captures an amplified Pryor demonstrating how it is supposed to be done.

Also of interest are the descriptive liner notes by Sandra B. Tooze which include this quote from Pryor; "I'm old, but I'm hell". Damn straight!

The characteristics of his harmonica style tend to be habitual at times, and are prevalent on many of the tracks. As a result, a number of songs have a similar sound. After a while, with all that power and energy, there is a risk of overkill. No doubt, I'm sure you will be thoroughly satisfied by the time you reach this point. You could always save the rest for later.

Once again, Electro-Fi has managed to produce another solid new release from an older American blues artist. This is more than just good fortune. This label has no difficulty recognizing natural talent and has an obvious knack for producing delightful blues recordings.

Copyright 2004. Review by Warren Dallin.

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