Ivan Appelrouth has been making music for almost thirty years. His new album, Blues and Instrumental, is a tribute to artists who have influenced him as his career has developed. He is joined by Big Joe Maher and the Dynaflows. Appelrouth has done an excellent job with his first album as lead performance artist. Original tracks and four excellent cover songs together combine to create an album that any blues or classical enthusiast will enjoy.
“Blues A La King” is a mellow and sultry journey into the heart of instrumental blues. The electric guitar wails and moans while flashes of piano illuminate the night like stars in the sky. It burns like a comet and before you know it, you are closing your eyes and moving with the sound. It becomes a part of you with a resonance that only comes with music that speaks to your soul.
“Junior Jumps” is the happiest blues song I think I have ever heard. It does just what the track says. It jumps, swings and moves you around in your seat as the music joyfully pours into your ears. If you want a track to listen to after a hard day, here you go. Applerouth’s guitar playing is spectacular. The piano and other accompanying instruments blend together to create an instant feel good audible vacation.
“T-Boned Again” swings out at the onset and you are locked in for the ride. A tribute to T-Bone Walker, this track is fluid streaming motion. Horns blare, the piano tickles your ears and the guitar takes you on a journey through the blues that will leave you wanting even more of this artist’s work. This is one of my favorite tracks on the album.
One of the most unique things about this album is the fact that Appelrouth and his accompanying band met for two five hour sessions and recorded the album with no prior rehearsals. Appelrouth had a vision of what he wanted Blues and Instrumental to be about and from what I can hear, he has succeeded. One of his goals was to make songs that would be accompaniments to television and movies. A true tribute to some jazz and blues greats, this album sports four cover songs and some exciting original pieces that make this a great addition to anyone’s Jump Blues or Jazz collection.
Key Tracks- Blues A La King, Junior Jumps, T-Boned Again
Dana Wright-Muzikreviews.com Staff
July 19, 2011
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