May 11^th, 2008

CD Review Tomcat Courtney “Downsville Blues”

Blue Barry – smoky Mtn. Blues Society

Here are some real blues coming out of San Diego by Tomcat Courtney. His new CD “Downsville Blues” is just killer. At 78 years old this guy is the real thing. I mean this is just what we are looking for in a bluesman. From the opening lick, vocals, and harmonica, this CD is setting the groove for the summer. Just exactly what you need in the cool of the evening. This wonderful CD will make its national debut on May 20^th on Blue Witch Records. This is real blues, with no fancy double takes, or cover ups, or lots of other extras added in. I mean Tomcat captures it. Great vocals, slide, harp, the works. I love it. This is the kind of band that can just rock you all night, and they no doubt are better live than on the CD. Dirty, gritty, mud between your toes, low down blues. Tomcat was born in 1929 and lived most of his early years in Downsville, Texas. His Daddy ran a juke joint, and was a ragtime piano player. The roots of this tree go pretty deep. There are 12 cuts on the CD with 9 of them written by Tomcat. Helping him out on several cuts are Willie “Big Eyes” Smith on drums, Bob Corritone on harmonica, Patrick Ryan on bass, and Chis James on Guitar. Brian Fahey plays drums on 3 tracks, while Tomcat does the vocals and plays guitar as well. “Downsville Blues” is a song about his hometown in Texas. “Disaster Blues” is a song about the horrible hurricane that hit Louisiana. Every song is just fine. I know you will love this one. If you like the real blues, well, here it is. Tell them your friend blue barry said so. Thanks Tomcat, and keep them coming.........