Hard to believe but, at 85, the great Nick Gravenites still grinds in the field of music – if “grinds” is a correct word for someone doing what they love and what they helped define. And it’s easy to believe that, without Nick, modern music wouldn’t sound the same because the Chicagoan guitarist’s playing and/or writing graced such influential platters as THE PAUL BUTTERFIELD BLUES BAND’s eponymous debut, THE ELECTRIC FLAG’s “A Long Time Comin'” and “Pearl” by Janis Joplin. Just as prominent is his friend Pete Sears whose bass or keyboards everybody could hear on Rod Stewart’s “Gasoline Alley” and JEFFERSON STARSHIP’s “Red Octopus” to name but a couple records. The two veterans also worked together for years – and they bring forth a joint album on April 5th.
with PETE SEARS –
Rogue Blues
Titled “Rogue Blues” and comprised of seven fresh cuts, it’s the first new offering from Nick in eight years – an effort which is characterized by a a stripped-down sound, with his and Pete’s instruments and voices supported by Charlie Musselwhite’s harmonica, Wally Ingram’s drums and the sonic presence of duo’s other friends. Simple yet monumental.
1. Poor Boy
2. Blues Singer
3. Left Hand Soul
4. Blackberry Jam
5. Blues Back Off Of Me
6. Brown Paper Bag
7. What Time Is It?
