My high school friend Ira, now living in South Florida, and I recently reconnected. He mentioned that The Downchild Blues Band was the model used by The Blues Brothers when they were first formed. Not only was my friend correct, as Dan Ackroyd is from the Toronto area, but I finally hold in my hand, the "proof". I had heard of The Downchild Blues Band but had not really listened enough to call myself a fan. This new cd by the forty year old ensemble finally clears up all my misconceptions.

Formed by brothers Donnie and Hock Walsh, the current members include Donnie Walsh, guitar; Chuck Jackson, harp and vocals; Michael Fonfara (formerly of Rhinoceros), keys; Gary Kendall, bass; Mike Fitzpatrick, drums; Pat Carey, saxophone; and Peter Jeffrey, trumpet. This live recording captures the collective energy of The Downchild Blues Band. Nine of the eleven songs were written by Donnie Walsh while the remaining two are from Chuck Jackson.

Highlights include the opener, "It's Been A Long Time". This tune not only features a great vocal from Chuck Jackson but also solos by Pat Carey, Michael Fonfera, and Donnie Walsh. "(I Got Everything I Need) Almost" is the bands most well known song as it was covered by The Blues Brothers on their first album "Briefcase Full of Blues". Other highlights include the slower whiskey laced "Mr Confusion"; the rockin' "What You Gonna Do"; and Chuck's best vocal "Dew Drop Inn". The album closes with the Donnie Walsh instrumental "Soaring".

This is not only a good cd but also a testament to the careers of its participants. Blues bands are mostly regional as the expenses of touring have significantly increased. Catch them when they do tour or plan to see them while on your next vacation. You'll be glad you did.

Richard Ludmerer
Director, The New York Blues & Jazz Society
ricdale2@yahoo.com