Deep Mud
Nola Blue, 2025
9/10
The son of the legend Muddy Waters and an esteemed artist in his own right, Mud Morganfield brings his inimitable pipes and bass playing to these 14 authentic blues tracks.
The animated and rhythmic “Bring Me My Whiskey” opens with Morganfield’s soulful pipes alongside Sumito Ariyo Ariyoshi’s lively keys and Rick Kreher’s flowing guitar, and “Big Frame Woman” follows with E.G. McDaniel’s playful bass that suits the expressive singing and Melvin ‘Pooky Styx’ Carlisle’s snappy drumming.
Further along, “Ernestine” recruits Studebaker John’s spirited harmonica that complements the dense grooves, while “Cosigner Man” places Roosevelt Purifoy on organ and Felicia Collins on backgrounds via the melodic and dance floor ready sounds.
Moving closer to the end, “Country Boy” enlists Rodrigo Mantovani’s skilled upright bass amid Morganfield’s vivid storytelling and the timeless blues, and “A Dream Walking” exits with Jacole Avent’s powerful backing vocals that contribute much to the gospel nods.
An effort that is rooted in respect and love, Morganfield’s execution is forthright and raw, and the top notch players further solidify this is as must for fans of Chicago Blues.
Travels well with: Mud Morganfield- Portrait; Johnnie Johnson- I’m Just Johnnie