On October 9th, the New York Blues and Jazz Society hosted a benefit show at The Mexicali Blues Café to raise money for the victims of hurricane Katrina. Ellis Hooks was among the musicians who donated their talents free of charge.

Now thirty-one Ellis has absorbed all he needs to and has become the "Godson of Soul". Nobly led by Jon and Sally Tiven, Ellis first Evidence release "Up Your Mind" received world wide acclaim. Now with his fourth and second on Evidence Ellis does it again. Ellis is focused and confident entertaining with just a guitar, but in front of a real Rhythm and Blues band he is awesome. Ellis Hooks is the future of the genre.

On this album Ellis is accompanied by Jon Tiven (guitar) and Sally Tiven (bass). Billy Block handles the guitar chores. Guest artists include Marty Brown, Steve Cropper, Bobby Womack, Wayne Jackson, Mason Casey and Mandy Pfeiffer. The album is produced by Jon Tiven.

The album opens with "Five Times", "I made love to you five times"... who wouldn't miss that contact? And yes it's Memphis all the way. Next is "Black Nights, Blue Moon" with its subdued reggae beat. Then it's funky as we play "High Roller, all night blackjack, slots and roulette". "Litta Bitta Lovin goes a long long way..." has got that Memphis thing goin' on again. The songwriting is mostly by Ellis, Jon and Sally, although "Was It Something I Said" was co-written with Steve Cropper. Other highlights include "Chainsaw" co-written with Marty Brown, "Sidetracked" co-written with Charlie Feldman and the terrific "If God Brought You To It".

Soul Music can lift your spirits. If you were a fan of Wilson Pickett and Otis Redding then you'll love Ellis Hooks.

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