This acoustic trio is comprised of three elder New Yorkers who have become statesmen of the real folk Blues. Stefan Grossman studied with Reverend Gary Davis and in 1964 formed the Even Dozen Jug Band which included Maria Muldaur and John Sebastian among others. Danny Kalb was a founding member of The Blues Project along with Steve Katz. Steve went on to help form Blood, Sweat and Tears with Al Kooper, and later was a member of American Flyer. These three have been associated together, (Danny Kalb and Stefan Grossman recorded "Crosscurrents" in 1969) and therefore this album is like a re-union.

Opening is Steve Katz playing harmonica and singing on "Played A Little Fiddle". Stefan Grossman and Danny Kalb trade licks on this infectious tune. Guitar instrumentals included are, "Old Country Rock", "Shuffle Rag", "Candyman Fantasia", and Pete Seeger's "Living In The Country". Stefan is usually finger-picking while Danny is handling the bass line and building his lead. On the instrumental "Mississippi Blues", Steve Katz is added again on harp. On "Katz Rag" Steve is playing the Washboard; this medley evolves into Steve's vocal on Mississippi John Hurts "My Creole Belle". On "Rising of The Midnight Sun", another instrumental, Stefan Grossman plays slide guitar. The combination of acoustic guitars creates moods ranging from the more traditional to John Fahey like eclectic sojourns. This is great late night music to relax to.

Danny sings lead on Muddy Waters "Long Distance Call". Danny's guitar is wicked as he takes a wild solo. Steve's harmonica playing has never sounded better. Danny sings again on Big Bill Broonzy's "Southbound Train". Stefan sings lead on "Richland Woman Blues" and on Jelly Roll Morton's "Buddy Bolden Blues". Steve also sings on "Green Green Rocky Road", again on his own song about the 60's "Kettle of Fish" and on Billy Hill's "Glory of Love".

Not only is it great to hear Steve Katz sing again but this album also reminds us of how beautiful the combined styles of acoustic guitar can be when played by masters of the instrument. Their camaraderie is reflected in their playing which can only be described as exuberant.

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