This is Jon Paris' second release on the Blues Leaf label. From 1978 to 1989, Jon toured with Johnny Winter and his discography includes five Johnny Winter albums. Jon Paris rocks hard but he is always true to his blues roots. He is an intense performer whose passionate vocals, guitar and harmonica always leave the crowd begging for more. Jon Paris can be seen at Lucille's located within BB Kings Blues Club on 42nd in New York City where he holds residence on Monday nights. He has recently played the big room opening for John Hammond, Little Richard, Johnny Winter and BB King.

Jon Paris contributes 8 new songs, and begins with "Good to Go"; he is ready for takeoff to The Blue Planet. Originals include "Til I Lost You", "I never really new this feeling called the blues until I lost you"; "Overhauled Cadillac", "I just got a tune up and an overhaul, now my Cadillac drives just like new, let me take you for a ride little girl, and I'll show you what my Cadillac can do"; and "Paris Blues", "I was born back in the USA but here I got to stay, with the Paris Blues". The real gem here however is "This Ain't the Planet I Signed Up For", "if things keep going like they've been going what's to come of you and me". Jon is a formidable songwriter.

Jon also covers several classics. The first is John Lee Hooker's "Boogie" and you know Jon feels it when he says "so Momma and Poppa agreed to let that boy boogie woogie, cause it's in him and its got to come out". Jon also covers Muddy Waters "The Blues Had a Baby", "and they called it rock n' roll". On "The Sad Night Owl", a Sonny Thompson instrumental, Jon gives us some slow "slide". On Elmore James "Talk To Me Baby", Jon's slide guitar and harmonica trade solos as he and the studio audience alternate on the chorus. "My Eyes Keep Me in Trouble" is the Hap Walker tune that was recorded by many including Muddy Waters.

Accompanying Jon on this album are Amy Madden, bass; and Sandy Gennaro, drums. Jon Paris' delivers high energy blues that rocks. He is talented, charismatic and one of New York City's finest. Give this album a listen.

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