County Fair 2000
Liberation Hall, 2024
10/10
Best known as the front man for the seminal outfit The Blasters, this sophomore solo album from Phil Alvin arrived in 1994 and draws from a large pool of influences via the ‘20s to the ‘40s.
The crisp and upbeat “County Fair” opens the listen with James Intveld’s intricate guitar and Jerry Angel’s raw drumming adding much to the retro climate, and “Wreck Your V-8 Ford” follows with Billy Boy Arnold’s raw voice and harp making for swampy, bluesy flavor.
Deeper into the 16 tracks, “Starlight” is just Alvin’s distinct voice and light instrumentation that emits a unique folk quality, while “What’s The Reason I’m Not Pleasin’ You” recruits Bob Ringwald’s animated keys, Jim Maihack’s well timed tuba and trombone and John Bainbridge’s reed prowess for the old time dynamics.
Deeper yet, the groove filled “Oh, Doctor”, the best track, showcases Cesar Rosas’ rhythmic guitar and Ken Sara’s meticulous drumming, and “Ankh/Didn’t He Ramble” exits with the Dirty Dozen Brass Band in attendance for the hazy, jazz spirited finish that turns into a festive bout.
Alvin stated that the album was "American minstrel music", and the American blues, jazz, R&B, gospel, ragtime and doo-wop moments only add more appeal to this timeless record that’s thankfully back in print and on vinyl for the first time.
Travels well with: The Blasters- Mandatory: The Best Of The Blasters; APB- Cure For The Blues