Sugar Is My Name
Music Maker, 2022
8/10
The harmonica wizard Sugar Harp dealt with some tragedy recently as his van with all his belongings caught fire, and it wasn’t long after that that the pandemic struck, which only added to the uncertainly of him playing music again.
Fortunately, friends helped Harp with a new vehicle and harmonicas, he’s still plugging away with his upfront lyrics and groove filled blues on this first album.
The title track leads the listen with soulful harmonica alongside the brushed drums and Harp’s raw, powerful singing, and “Special Recipe” follows with the raw vocals complemented by soaring bouts of harmonica and cautious drumming.
Halfway through, “Lemon Squeezin’ Fool” brings plenty of rhythm into the infectious, southern energy, while “My Truck My Dog My Wife” benefits much from bluesy electric guitar amid Harp’s distinct, gritty pipes.
“Mojo Hand” and Murder Murder Murder” exit the listen, where the former is stripped bare with just a guitar and the expressive singing, and the latter illustrates vivid storytelling and much attention to detail via the harmonica, guitar, drums, and, of course, Harp’s strong voice.
Ardie Dean handles drums here and Microwave Dave plays guitar. Together, they illuminate Harp’s very authentic and timeless version of blues from the Birmingham, Alabama songsmith.
Travels well with: Bob Corritore & Friends- Down Home Blues Revue; Dave Weld & The Imperial Flames- Nightwalk