Terry Blade’s latest album, "Chicago Kinfolk: The Juke Joint Blues", is a masterful tribute to the rich legacy of Chicago Blues. More than just a collection of songs, this 10-track project is an ethnographic exploration that bridges past and present, paying homage to legendary figures like Theresa Needham, Muddy Waters Jr., Jimmy Walker, Lefty Dizz, and Willie Monroe. Through a combination of original compositions, historical recordings, and carefully curated archival interviews, Blade crafts an immersive experience that captures the soul of the genre.
Blade, an award-winning singer-songwriter, has built a reputation for blending genres and infusing his work with personal and cultural narratives. His unique approach to Blues incorporates not only traditional instrumentation and storytelling but also a sense of research and historical depth. This album stands out as both a sonic journey and an educational experience, rooted in the voices of those who shaped Chicago’s Blues scene.
The opening track, "Nothin' But the Blues (feat. Theresa Needham)", immediately sets the tone, featuring excerpts from a 1977 interview with the, “Godmother of Chicago Blues”, herself. Needham’s legacy as the owner of the famed Theresa’s Tavern—where Blues greats like Muddy Waters and Buddy Guy performed—is a vital part of this project. Her no-nonsense attitude is encapsulated in her response to being asked how she managed to throw unruly patrons out of her club: “Because they respect me.” It’s a powerful moment that affirms the authority and influence she wielded in the scene.
Throughout the album, Blade seamlessly integrates archival material with his own compositions. "The Blues is Pressure (feat. Jimmy Walker)", exemplifies this approach, as Blade intertwines his music with an interview from May 1977, where Walker’s infectious laughter and insightful reflections add warmth and authenticity. This track, in particular, serves as the inspiration behind the album’s title, as Blade found a familial familiarity with Walker’s voice, reminiscent of his own late grandfather.
One of the standout tracks, "Be Around No More", is a powerful anthem about leaving abusive relationships and never looking back. Originally recorded as a demo before evolving into Blade’s 2023 single, "Won’t Be Around", this version has a faster tempo and a rawer, more immediate impact. Blade’s deep, resonant vocals carry a sense of finality and liberation, making it one of the most emotionally charged songs on the album.
Other highlights include, "Gettin’ Tired of You", inspired by the notorious Harlem crime boss Madame Stephanie St. Clair. Blade’s storytelling prowess shines here, weaving historical references with the timeless themes of resilience and defiance. "Tell ‘Em", takes a more socially conscious turn, drawing inspiration from cases like Cyntoia Brown and William “Marc” Wilson, adding a contemporary layer to the album’s historical grounding.
Blade also pays homage to Blues pioneers through reinterpretation, as heard in, "That’s Alright", his take on, "That’s All Right", by Arthur “Big Boy” Crudup. Crudup, often regarded as the, “Father of Rock ‘n’ Roll,” recorded the song in Chicago in 1946. Though it later became famous through Elvis Presley’s version, Crudup never received the royalties he deserved. Blade’s rendition serves as both a tribute and a reclamation of blues history, bringing attention back to its rightful roots.
The album closes with, "Fallen Sons (Original Version)", a poignant track addressing gun violence on Chicago’s South Side. Using imagery of Black American cowboys and fast-draw duels as a metaphor for modern-day shootings, Blade crafts a deeply moving commentary on loss and survival. The song’s acapella introduction and faster tempo make it a gripping and emotional conclusion to the album.
Ultimately, "Chicago Kinfolk: The Juke Joint Blues", is more than a music project—it’s a cultural document, a love letter to the Chicago Blues tradition, and a testament to Terry Blade’s artistry. By blending historical recordings with his own original work, Blade not only honors the past but also ensures that its stories and sounds continue to resonate. Whether you’re a longtime Blues fan or new to the genre, this album is a must-listen, offering both a history lesson and a deeply personal musical journey.
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