Peter "Blewzzman" Lauro � August 2009 

 

    I'm not exactly sure if the word "Reverend" is a title acquired through ordainment or if it's just a common nickname that he, as many other blues musicians, chose to use.  Regardless of the origin, I do know that listening to Rev. Marv Ward sing his original, message filled songs will make you feel good.....real good! 

 

    On "Love Like You Never Been Burned", The Reverend, on electric & acoustic guitar, percussion and vocals, is joined by:  Mike Wainscott on acoustic guitar; James Boyce on bass & slide guitar; Tom "T-Bird" Toglio on drums; Willie Lyles on Hammond organ; Jim "Wallstreet" Coullard and Mike Fore on harmonica; Treavor Michael on dobro; Cam Mullikan on mandolin; John Miranda on saxophone; Patty Ficklin, Susan Mullikan and Abby Brown on backup vocals.

 

    The words that make up the title track are just a portion of the advice that the song gives.  Ya see, if you really want to get through life's strife, then......you gotta work like you don't need the money, be happy with the karma you've earned, you gotta dance like nobody's watching and "Love Like You Never been Burned".  Now that's a mouthful.  Between the very advisable lyrics, the intensity with which they're sung, the funky rhythm and the rippin' sax riffs, I'm thinking I just heard this years song of the year. 

 

    If misery indeed loves company, then the Reverend's got lots of it, as he experiences these "Hard Times".  You're not the only one they're killin', Rev.  This one features a great rhythm groove with hot harp and guitar leads by Jim and Marv.

 

   The only cover on the disc is "The Cuckoo".  It's a traditional English folk song that has been covered by many musicians in several different styles, and this is one of the best renditions I've ever heard.  Thankfully it is one of the discs longest tracks, because unfortunately, it's the only track which features Cam and his masterful mandolin playing. The 90 second instrumental intro, which features the melding of the mandolin, the dobro and the acoustic guitars, is hypnotizing.  Additionally, Rev. Marv nails it on the vocals.  By far one of the discs best.         

 

 On this track, Rev. Marv's figured out how to "Chase These Blues Away", and his philosophy makes it sound real easy.  Dobro and acoustic guitars, along with great harp work from Mike, highlight this Piedmont blues style number.  

 

   The final message the Reverend shares with us all is that when "Love Is Calling", it might be a very good idea if you're listening.  Highlighting this one is great backup vocals, steady Hammond work throughout, and more wonderful and inspiring lyrics. 

 

    Other tracks on "Love Like You Never Been Burned", a gospel and soulful combination of Delta and Piedmont blues, include: "Ole Mule", "Railroad Gal", "It's Just You", "Unabashed Carnivore" and "On Down The Road".

 

    Now that you're done reading about it, you really ought to listen to it.  You can do that by going to  http://www.marvward.com/ to pick up a copy.  Make sure you tell him the Blewzzman sends his regards.

 

Peter "Blewzzman" Lauro

Blues Editor @ www.Mary4Music.com