ROOM WITH A VIEW of the blues..... Ellis Hooks "Up Your Mind" Evidence Records In 1999, Jon & Sally Tiven produced Wilson Pickett’s comeback album “It’s Harder Now”. Jon Tiven also co-wote all 11 of the songs; 5 with Wilson Pickett. He also plays guitar on the album. The album marked the first new recordings of this “R & B Soul” great in ten years. A monumental achievement. Jon Tiven’s latest production is by a new “R & B Soul” great, Ellis Hooks. Once again Jon & Sally, his wife, co-write along with Ellis Hooks 13 new soul tunes, but here the credit goes to discovering Ellis Hooks. Ellis’s voice is crafted from listening to the greats of the genre, Wilson Pickett, Otis Redding, and James Brown. The passion pours out of him. Singing like a man who has at thirty more life experiences than possible, Ellis re-defines the “R & B Soul” genre. Just listen to “Eight Months Ago Today” and you’ll know what I’m talking about. Recently making a surprise appearance at New York Blues & Jazz Society’s Danny Draher “Memphis Bound” benefit at The Bitter End 1/20, Ellis stole the show. The cd “Up Your Mind” is available on Evidence Music. Enrico Crivellaro "Key To My Kingdom" Electro-Fi Recently attention has been paid to up and coming European blues stars most notably Ana Popovic. Electro-Fi Records just released an outstanding cd by Italian blues guitarist Enrico Crivellaro. Aided by a great supporting cast including Finis Tasby and James Harman, Enrico joins the “guitar elite”. A style reminiscent of Ronnie Earl and Anson Funderburgh, Enrico leaves his impression. Credit’s include working in James Harman’s band and with The Royal Crown revue, where he won the “Swing Guitarist of The Year Award. The Electro-Fi label continues to release wonderful new recordings. Richard Ludmerer ricdae2@yahoo.com