Tap the Red Cane Whirlwind: Solo Concert Recordings

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Customer reviews

review by: Hybridpicker date: 2007-09-27 rating:
Where's the slide?
Kelly Joe plays beautifully on this live cd, but I was disappointed to find that there is none of his masterful lapslide playing on the album. If I attended a Kelly Joe gig, only to find that he'd left is lapslide guitar at home, I would feel very much aggrieved. But if the lack of slide playing is no problem for you, you won't be disappointed with this album.

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review by: date: 2006-11-28 rating:
Yep, he's that good!
I did things in reverse when it comes to KJP. I picked up a couple of CD's on recommendation (this being one)and then got to see him live (The Arts Theatre, London, 27.11.06). Its true. He's as good as this, maybe even better. His playing is nothing short of mesmerising. Unpredictable, clean and deeply, deeply moving. 'Hard Time On The Killing Floor' has just got to be one of the most captivating, unsettling performances by a young, white blues player ever. The recording quality throughout this CD is nigh on perfect, with just the right amount of audience sound to capture the intensity of the performance. I guess it could be described as respectful - but I think awestruck may be just as appropriate. What this doesn't necessarily reflect is the humour, self-deprectation and good nature of the man. His observations, anecdotes and banter between songs are just as warm, surreal and individual as his song lyrics. But it showcases his mastery of the guitar and a wonderful, soulful voice that sounds as though it has been left to mature in a vat of bourban for a good while. Late night listeing at its very best.Really recommended for anyone with an interest in acoustic blues and music with integrity.

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review by: date: 2005-02-28 rating:
05's Gift From Mr. Phelps
Being familiar and enriched by the integrity and quality of Kelly Joe Phelps' prior recordings, the only reservation I had before I bought this CD was that it was live.
Understand me, I don't dislike live albums in principle. In the case of certain artists, live recordings have captured legendary performances and unusual moments of beauty.
Anyway, the point was whether an album of new versions of old songs and a couple of classic Blues, plus the potentially limited sound of a live performance, would add to Phelps' track record.
Great news. This album is as satisfying and likely to touch you as much as any one of Phelps prior incarnations, whichever one may be your favorite.
The album begins with a remarkable version of the classic "Hard Time Killin' Floor Blues," sung so close to the bone you may think he's channeling Skip James himself, and also serving a the first reminder of this man's skill and feel on the acoustic guitar.
Both his voice and his strings do the honors on several of self-penned tunes too. Three that must be mentioned for their intimacy and new touch are "Not So Far To Go" and "Waiting For Marty," both ballads that were highlights from his last studio album Slingshot Professionals," the tender and thoughtful "Tommy," and the second cover "I Am The Light O f The World."
Finally, the quality of the recording is impeccable as live albums go. It seems that the people in the small audience present was as enthralled as I, when he played these songs. Other than applauses respectfully waiting for the end of each song, the silence is absolute. Almost reverential of the great music captured on Tap The Red Cane Whirlwind.


review by: jlwilliams16 date: 2005-02-28 rating:
Breath taking
If you've ever seen KJP live you have to buy this album - he'll be back in the same room with you; understated, utterly charming - a guitar master!
The first track I heard off this album was on a freebie from a magazine. When the track ended and I heard applause I suddenly realised he'd just played it (Not so far to go) live! amazing and perfect. P.s. If you're a guitarist this CD will either be a true inspiration to you or make you weep as you throw your guitar out of the window.

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