This is John Nemeth's third album and his first for Blind Pig Records. John became the replacement harpist/vocalist in Anson Funderburgh and The Rockets when Sam Myers took ill during 2005 and 2006. He previously was featured with the Junior Watson Band.

On Magic Touch, Anson Funderburgh becomes the producer and Junior Watson the guitarist. Added are Eric Przygocki, acoustic bass; John Calhoun Street, piano and organ; and Wes Starr, drums; all from The Rockets. Ronnie James Webber is on Fender bass. Also added are The Texas Horns. The results are magic.

The album opens with "The Blues Hit Big Town", a Junior Wells composition. John Nemeth, at only thirty three years old, has mastered his instrument, the harmonica, but it is his soulful singing that really impresses. On "Blue Broadway", the first of seven John Nemeth originals, John sounds like Robert Cray. "Magic Touch", an original and the title track, includes a fine Junior Watson guitar solo. "My Future" another passionate vocal by John was also written by Junior Watson.

"She's Looking Good" written by Roger Collins is next. "She Did Not Show" my favorite, is a gritty John Nemeth tune about a man who just can't win at "relationships". "You're An Angel" also written by John is a more poignant vocal. "Sit and Cry The Blues", the Willie Dixon standard, features the Texas Horns with Mark Kazinoff, and John Mills, saxophones; and Al Gomez, trumpet; they appear on half the tracks. "You were Wrong" is from Z.Z. Hill. The last three songs are the remaining John Nemeth originals. "Let Me Hold You" (with Anson on guitar), "Up To No Good" and the Tex-Mex "Come On".

The production by Anson Funderburgh reminds us of better days when production values were always this good. Each well crafted song is a passionate performance by John Nemeth who has quickly become one of my favorite vocalists. This album is worthy of a Blues Award nomination.

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