The Bottom Line
Combine one of the Blues' future superstars, Shemekia Copeland, with the ultimate groove master, Dr. John, and you have a collaboration made in heaven.
Pros
- Shemekia's best effort to date.
- Produced by Dr. John
- Backed by Dr. John's stellar band.
Cons
- A little bit long. 15 cuts.
Description
- Once again, it's Chicago meets New Orleans. Two Blues "Meccas" that defined American music.
- Dr. John gets Copeland to temper her voice, the resulting contrast makes her voice sound stronger.
- Copeland is expanding her musical styles. This record is less Chicago oriented.
Guide Review - Talking To Strangers - Shemekia Copeland
In the last few years Shemekia Copeland has exploded on the Blues scene. The daughter of Johnny Copeland, her voice is the nuclear bomb of the Blues. Those who have seen her live can attest to this. She leaves the mic and sings without amplification, even to the largest festival crowds, and can be heard in the parking lot. Dr. John has been an American music icon for 30+ years and has seen 'em come and go. It's this blending, of the new spirit with the old sensibility, that makes this Alligator Records release compelling. A quite powerful cool. Livin' On Love establishes the funk while Sholanda's house of "bewtay" struts a second line groove. A duet with Dr. John, The Push I Need will be a classic. Can you say Blues record of the year?
