You Shocked Me
VizzTone, 2022
8/10
It’s been a prolific year for Bob Corritore, who put out an astonishing 4 albums, and he’s been bringing along some excellent company, too. On this installment he’s aligned with Alabama Mike, Johnny Rawls, Bill ‘Howl-N-Madd’ Perry, Sugaray Rayford and Oscar Wilson, among others, for the 16 energetic tunes.
“Hiding Place” gets the listen off to a rowdy and rhythmic start with soaring guitar and flowing harmonica amid the powerful vocals from John Primer, and “Squeeze Me Baby” follows with Alabama Mike’s inimitable pipes guiding the rugged yet tuneful climate.
Elsewhere, the melodic and bouncy delivery of “Blinded” benefits much from Jimi “Primetime” Smith’s gritty voice, while “Don’t Need Your Permission” recruits Francine Reed’s powerful and expressive pipes for the frisky album highlight.
Near to the end, “Sunny Day Friends” captures Diunna Greenleaf’s soulful and distinct vocals, and “Blues For Hippies” exits with Alabama Mike upfront and radiant alongside the robust rhythm section.
Corritore’s underrated production skills capture these tunes superbly, and his harmonica prowess is as excellent as always across the timeless blues, soul and gospel leanings that will be sure to satiate the longtime fan and turn new ears into unwavering fans.
Travels well with: Bob Corritore & Friends- Down Home Blues Revue; Louisiana Red & Bob Corritore- Tell Me ‘Bout It