Rich "The Flavor" Cohen is a NJ, & PA based guitarist and vocalist who has played with artists as diverse as Ted Hawkins, Majek Fashek, Mason Casey, Sweet Georgia Brown, Chuck Jackson and Slam Allen. Although involved in many projects, The Blues Prescription is his band, and they include Rich on guitar; George Papa George, organ; Admir "Dr Blues" Hadzic, bass; and Barry Harrison, drums. Guest artists are Jason Ricci, harp; Brian Charette, piano; and Rod Gross, drums.

Opening with "Can't Do Anything About It" the first of 6 original compositions written by Rich one is impressed with the tightness of the band. Jason Ricci's harp playing is always killer but here we get to hear him as a sideman and not as a band leader. Rich's guitar solos nicely. On "Sour Mash", Rod Gross sets the beat while once again Rich's guitar dances about. Rich sings thru the harp mike. Rich states that this song is in the key of "Whis" key.

Next is "2:19" written by Tom Waits. Rich's voice is best on this song and on Sleepy John Estes "Floating Bridge". These are my favorite tracks on the album. Included also are two wild guitar instrumentals, the jumping "Bounce and Burn", and "Rx Blues". The remaining two originals are "Shame On You" and "Who's That Knockin"; on the later Brian Charette, piano, sits in for George Papa George. On these Rich and Jason solo nicely off of each other.

Jason Ricci sings and plays his trademark harp on Slim Harpo's "Shake Your Hips" which was recorded live at "Trumpets Jazz Club and Restaurant" in Montclair, NJ. This track is one of the albums highlights as it's as exciting as it gets.

The album is produced by Rich Cohen and Admir Hadzic. This is a solid band effort and an album that should garner "Rich Cohen and The Blues Prescription" a bunch of new fans

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