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Memphis Livin by Billy Lavender
March 3, 2010 | 12:28 PM
Billy Lavender - Memphis Livin'
I55 Productions I55-0200
While guitarist and vocalist Billy Lavender may be a new name to many, several of his supporting cast (including Brad Webb and Blind Mississippi Morris) will be familiar to Blues In Britain readers. Lavender mostly lets his guitar do the talking, and it speaks very well for him. He supplements his own vocals with guest vocalists, Tony Adams, Ken Dinkins, Reba Russell and Vince Johnson. As you would expect for a Memphian, there is a soulful feel underlying most of the music on offer,
even the rockier songs like "Singin' The Blues" and "Let's Party".It is strongest on the excellent instrumental "Just Chillin'", and the fine balladeering of "Bottom Line". Elsewhere there are shades of Steely Dan,
"Blue", and CSNY, "All The People". The band set a high standard throughout, although it does wane slightly on the last couple of tracks.
Lavender is a fine guitarist and songwriter, and also a good vocalist.
Supported by a fine cast of musicians, it all adds up to an entertaining
way to pass an hour.
- Keith Shackleton
Blues in Britain
February 24, 2010 | 6:53 PM
Billy Lavender/Memphis Livin' - Lavender's noted for blazing guitar, which he uses cleverly on this outstanding and highly entertaining album.
The CD succeeds very well in showcasing the Memphis blues sound. Lavender can play lazy, soulful Memphis licks or punchy driving guitar, yet never overpowering the song. He mingles fine rhythm tracks with his leads.
There's great support, with Vince Johnson playing great down-home harmonica on tunes like Cold as Ice.
He chips in strong vocals along with Reba Russell, who has worked with star acts like B.B. King and U2. Russell Wheeler's B-3 keyboards complete the Memphis mix of boogie, blues and ballads.
Anyone who likes Memphis blues sound or any blues, should have this album.
- Dennis Smith
Toronto Blues Music Examiner
February 10, 2010 | 5:11 PM
"I'm premiering Billy Lavender's Memphis Livin' tonight on the "Clinic of Boogie & Blues" program on WNRB 93.3 FM in Wausau. Loved it!!!! Picked "Let's Party", Just Chillin'" and "Bad Boy" to air. Great variety of styles displayed on the album."
- Robert Decker
Great Northern Blues Society
February 9, 2010 | 7:00 AM
Have you ever heard of Billy Lavender?
Have you ever heard of Billy Lavender? Probably not. He has just released his debut album, Memphis Livin’, on the I55 Productions label. Check out Let’s Party. Reba Russell, one of the hottest Blues singers of today, handles the lead vocals on the tune, as well as contributing to the background vocals. This number gives you a sampling of Billy Lavender’s expertise on the guitar. Blind Mississippi Morris joins Billy on the harmonica. The song is very upbeat, so you may want to slow it down slightly. You will also want to take a listen to Tonight.
The song very much reminds me of Santana’s Smooth and Heaven by The Los Lonely Boys. The number has a sweet blend of Lavender’s guitar and Russell Wheeler on the Hammond B-3 organ. While you are checking, you may want to take a listen to Singin’ The Blues with Tony Adams on vocals with Lavender and Brad Webb tearing it up on guitar. This one, too, may need some pitch adjustment. Billy Lavender received his first guitar forty years ago and learned to play right-handed instruments left-handed and upside down. It is rare that this Memphis native takes on the lead vocals, but is always joined by a host of experienced musician friends, and they have a great time playing all the music Billy knows and loves.
This is a great tribute to Memphis and all involved.
- Mike Little
Board of Directors of the NARBDJ
February 6, 2010 | 9:20 AM
Billy Lavender "Memphis Livin" CD Definitely Recommended
I picked up the Billy Lavender CD last week and it seems to be stuck in the CD player of my car. Not literally but figuratively. Every time the CD finishes it starts over and it starts off with Singing the Blues and before you know it I’ve listened to the whole CD again.
That’s how it started but now I’m finding I’m really hooked. I love a Memphis sound in the blues. While the Mississippi Delta is considered the birth place of the blues there is no doubt Memphis, the commercial center just north, was responsible for giving the rest of us access. I have a feeling there is a lot of great music in Memphis but it doesn’t leave often.
I plan to go to Memphis this summer and I’m thinking there is probably something wonderful about being in Memphis and that is probably what kept Billy Lavender a secret and also inspired this break out album that I think we’ll be hearing frequently as the media picks up on this talent. Here is a video of Memphis Livin by Billy Lavender. I wonder if its representative of the life Billy’s been living in Memphis singing the blues?
Billy Lavender’s Memphis Livin CD is a virtual showcase of many Memphis talents. There is hardly room for anything else on the CD back cover. Here are a few of the more recognizable names:
Vince Johnson - Harmonica and vocals
Dan Cochran - Bass
Tony Adams - Drums & Percussion
Russell Wheeler - B3 Organ & Piano
Blind Mississippi Morris - Harmonica (rated by Bluzharp magazine as one of the 10 best harmonica players in the world)
All in all this is a can’t miss combo which gives us all a taste of Beale Street, Memphis.
One more thing I must add. As many of you know I’m a big fan of eMusic and MP3s vs collecting CDs. Billy Lavender’s Memphis Living album is available on eMusic and if you’re new to the service you should be able to pick it up for free as part of your free no risk trial membership by clicking this banner:
Thanks for reading and i hope you enjoy the fine sounds of Billy Lavender.
Billy Lavender at I55 Productions
- Kellyf
World of Blues
February 3, 2010 | 2:04 PM
Billy Lavender - Memphis Livin - I-55 Productions
Billy Lavender pays tribute to his hometown of Memphis, Tennessee with this October 2009 release on I-55 Productions. A student of the left handed, upside down school of guitar mastery, Lavender gets a chance to let his talent shine alongside several of his friends on the album's 14 wide-ranging
numbers.
The opening track, "Singin The Blues," is the only song on Memphis Livin that Lavender didn't have a hand in helping to write. Billy Lavender scores writing or co-writing credits on each of the other 13 tracks on this effort. The songs sets a great tone for the album, as far as Lavender's fretwork isconcerned. Although I could do without the backing vocals, drummer/Vocalist Tony Adams, who also co-wrote the song, does a great job delivering the clever lyrics on "Singin The Blues."
"Let's Party" marks the impressive first appearance by vocalist Reba Russell on Memphis Livin and also features some mind-blowing harmonica work by Blind Mississippi Morris. I wouldn't be surprised if that harp melted in his hands during the recording process, because this tune is hot!
That's followed by "Tonight," a song where Lavender's guitar is just as soulful as Ken Dinkins' vocals. "Just Chillin" is an instrumental number with more great harmonica, although this time it's provided by Vince Johnson. Mike Stoker takes advantage of his bass being front and center for a few seconds on the track, as well. I like the way they phased Lavender's guitar from left to right on "Just Chillin," too. It sounded great through my headphones.
Johnson sticks to harp duties, but also handles the vocals on the Stone Cold Blues of "Cold As Ice." He's also the front man on the groovin' "Shake It," throwing down some of his best harp on the album. Lavender steps to the mic on the rocker, "Get Along," throwing some hot licks around as well. Russell Wheeler goes to town and back on piano duties here.
"Blue" is an almost surreal number, filled with Producer Brad Webb's sitar, layered vocals, and haunting B-3 from Wheeler. "Bad Boy" is a voodoo groove, with Tony Adams returning to vocal duties and pounding out a hypnotic rhythm along with Dan Cochran on bass.
Lavender jumps back on the mic for "All the People," a Beatled inspired number; and "If I Could." Both tracks feature vocal effects that could have been toned down for my taste, but they don't turn you off to the songs. It's interesting to note, though, that of the three songs where Lavender handles lead vocal duties, the longest is a mer 2:30 long. "If I Could" clocks in under 1:45.
Memphis Livin wraps up with "Delta Time," a song with a prison theme, performed almost as a work chant. It's a really cool concept, and comes across as another of the album's standout tracks.
Memphis Livin is like a Beale Street jam session caught on tape, with a long list of players and singers getting in on the fun. The common thread throughout, though, is Lavender's guitar, ringing out through it all. Whether it's Blues, Funk, Soul, or Rock 'N' Roll, Lavender delivers on Memphis Livin. Having made the time to sit down with the record and really disect it, I'm sorry it took so long to review.
Standout Tracks: "Cold As Ice," "Let's Party," "Delta Time," and "Shake It"
- "Johnny Full-Time" John Luttrell
January 28, 2010 | 7:03 PM
Billy Lavender – Memphis Livin'
I55 Productions LLC
<http://www.i55productions.com> www.memphislivin.com
<http://www.memphislivin.com> www.myspace.com/billylavender
<http://www.myspace.com/billylavender> 14 tracks/57:38
Billy Lavender may not be a familiar name to many blues fans, but he is considered to be one of the best guitar players involved with the Memphis music scene. He has been playing for over forty years – and was part of the generation of left-handed guitar players that simply turned a regular guitar upside-down and never missed a beat, despite the strings being in reverse order. Taking the role as leader on this collaborative project, Lavender has gathered together a cast of veteran musicians and vocalists and turned them loose on a batch of original material that serves as a primer on the diversity of the Memphis musical tradition.
Lavender turns in a solid vocal on the roadhouse rocker, “Get Along” but his fiery guitar work really makes an impression. “All the People” is a soulful plea for love and understanding with a multi-tracked vocal from Lavender. Brad Webb joins Lavender for an acoustic duo take on the brief “If I Could”, with Webb’s dobro setting the mood for some fine vocal harmonizing.
Drummer/percussionist Tony Adams takes the vocal lead on the opening track, “Singing the Blues”. His deep, gritty voice is a great match for this raucous tune, with Lavender matching the singer’s intensity on his guitar. “Bad Boy” gives Adams the opportunity to show his skill as a blues singer while “Delta Time” finds him belting out the lyrics on a blues theme with a heavy rock-influence. The energy level skyrockets when Reba Russell digs into “Let’s Party”, her vocal raising the roof with help from Blind Mississippi Morris on harmonica. Even better is her performance on “Blue”, a slow blues tune. Russell’s voice adopts a sultry purr before easily sliding through her impressive range to belt out the chorus with conviction. She also takes the lead on “Bottom Line” and delivers another strong performance on this ballad, salvaging some interest on what is the weakest cut on the disc. With his gritty vocal style and some down-home harp playing, Vince Johnson makes the most of his time in the spotlight.
“Cold As Ice” finds him pleading with his woman to come back home and using his harp to convey just how strong his feelings are for her. Lavender contributes a concise guitar solo. Johnson and Lavender tear through the up-tempo “Shake It”, contrasting Johnson’s simple harp phrases with Lavender’s cool, precise guitar licks. Another highlight is “3AM”, another slow blues with a soulful vocal from Johnson and more of Lavender’s impressive guitar work.Ken Dinkins handles all of the vocal arts on “Tonight”, a rock ballad that conjures up memories of Jimmy Hall and Wet Willie. “Just Chillin” has a brief vocal refrain over a deep, funky groove with Johnson’s harp taking the lead. While the assorted vocalists get much of the attention, the success of this project also rests on the stellar accompaniment. The unsung hero is Russell Wheeler, whose work on the Hammond B-3 organ consistently delights as he breathes life into each arrangement.
Dan Cochran and Mike Stoker share the bass guitar duties while Brad Webb covers the rhythm and slide guitar parts. Additional vocal help comes from Maria Spence and JoJo Jefferies. Collaborative projects like this can often fall short of the mark due to the difficulty of melding so many different styles and personalities into a coherent package. The fact that Billy Lavender makes it look easy is a testimonial to the lessons he has learned over his lengthy career. And he certainly has a talented group of musical compatriots helping him achieve his musical vision. This debut recording is a delight from start to finish. Can’t wait to hear more from Mr. Lavender !!!
- Reviewed by Mark Thompson, President of the Crossroads Blues Society,
for Blues Blast Magazine
www.crossroadsbluessociety.com
January 21 - 27, 2010 | 9:10 AM
(Article)
International Blues Challenge on Beale Street
The 26th Annual International Blues Challenge (IBC) takes over Beale Street this weekend, with events happening up and down the strip Thursday, January 21st, through Saturday, January 23rd. Sponsored by the Blues Foundation, the IBC brings unsigned blues bands, duos, and solo artist from all over the world to compete in the genre's biggest and most prestigious "battle of the bands." Semifinal competition will take place on Thrusday and Friday at participating Beale clubs.
The finals are Saturday at the Orpheum Theatre, with solo artists and duos squaring off at 2 p.m. and bands competing at 7:30 p.m. In addition, there are tons of ancillary activities, including a youth showcase in Beale clubs during the day Friday, and the annual Keeping the Blues Alive Awards ceremony Saturday morning at the Doubletree Hotel. Also on Friday afternoon, Memphis-based music company Blind Raccoon will take over Rum Boogie Cafe and King's Palace Cafe for their own pair of showcases, featuring artists such as Davis Coen, Billy Lavender (pictured), and the Jon Justice band. For more info on the full range of IBC events, see Blues.org
- Chris Herrington
January 13, 2010 | 4:10 PM
Memphis Livin'
Reviewed by Rick Davis
While growing up in Memphis, Billy Lavender was influence by artists like Mark Farner of Grand Funk Railroad, The Beatles, Eric Clapton, and Jimi Hendrix. Learning from some of the masters, he developed one of the best blues and R&B guitar styles in town. He recently joined with his friend Steve Bryson of I55 Productions LLC to produce one incredible cd with an all-star cast.
Joining Lavender are Brad Webb on rhythm and slide guitars, dobro, sitar, and backing vocals, Tony Adams on drums, percussion, and vocals, Dan Cochran on bass, Maria Spence on backup vocals, Russell Wheeler on the Hammond B3 organ, piano, and strings, Reba Russell on vocals and backup vocals, Blind Mississippi Morris on harmonica, Ken Dinkins on vocals, Vince Johnson on harmonica and vocals, Mike Stoker on bass guitar, and JoJo Jefferies on backup vocals.
The opening number "Singing The Blues" now gets air time, featuring Tony Adams on vocals and Lavender and Webb tearing it up on guitar. "Let's Party" really rocks with Reba Russell, one of the hottest blues singers today. You can get a sample of just how good Billy Lavender can play guitar on this number with Blind Mississippi on Harmonica. Ken Dinkins steps up to the microphone on the next R&B smash "Tonight" with a sweet blend of Lavender's guitar and Wheeler's B3 organ. Vince Johnson is featured on harmonica on the funky original "Just Chillin". Johnson continues on vocals with "Cold As Ice" sounding like the great Sugar Blue on harmonica. "Get Along" is one of the few cuts featuring Lavender on vocals with Webb backing him with his boogie woogie style piano. This one will get you on your feet in a hurry. The next number "Blue", one of the best cuts on the cd, features the sultry voice of Reba Russell blended with the sound of Brad Webb's sitar. Vince Johnson absolutely smokes on harmonica and vocals on the shuffle "Shake It" with Lavender coming in on guitar and Dan Cochran keeping a strong bass technique throughout. The band slows things down again with "Bottom Line" featuring the powerful voice of Reba Russell. The entire band is very strong on this song as they are throughout the entire album. Tony Adams comes right back growling on vocals with almost a swamp boogie opening on "Bad Boy" with Lavender hotter than ever on guitar. Johnson steps back to the microphone with the minor key blues number "3AM" forlorn because his "baby" has not returned home. Russell Wheeler brings out his incredible talent on the B3 with Billy Lavender playing his lonely guitar solos. Lavender returns to the vocal mic in "All The People" with a host of backup vocals. With Brad Webb playing the dobro and Lavender again blending his vocals with other backup vocals "If I Could" almost sounds like a number written for the Fab Four. This remarkable cd closes with Tony Adams belting out "Delta Time" much like an early Cream blues number with Billy Lavender matching an Eric Clapton style guitar solo.
This Memphis style album of soul, R&B, and blues would get my nomination for best blues album of year! I would have to say this one sizzles!!!
- Steve Jones
January 5, 2010 | 1:52 AM
"A long-time feature on the Memphis music scene, Billy Lavender is a native of the city, a left-hander who plays right-handed guitar upside-down and who got his first musical inspiration from rock band Grand Funk Railroad - now he is an excellent all-round player. For this set he has assembled a cast of local musicians - most likely to be familiar are harmonica man Blind Mississippi Morris and his frequent accompanist, Brad Webb on guitar, but vocals are shared around several top-notch singers and stylistically the music runs the whole gamut of Memphis sounds. Rocking Blues ("Let's Party" which has Mississippi Morris laying down some fine harp) to sweet soul, rockabilly to tough funk, moody rock to a Beatles inflected item, blues-rock to country; you'll find it all here. Vince Johnson takes front-man duties on several tracks, including the slow-ish blues "Cold As Ice" and the jazzy rocker "Shake It", and he also supplies some fine wailing harp. The overall feeling is of a bunch of friends jamming together and having a good time playing music they - and you will - like. A lot."
- Norman Darwen
Blues Matters
January 5, 2010 | 8:59 PM
"Guitarist, Billy Lavender, has not been in the business of recording in his own right for very long. While Lavender may be a new name to many, several of his supporting cast (including Brad Webb and Blind Mississippi Morris) will be familiar to BiB readers.
Lavender mostly lets his guitar do the talking, and it speaks very well for him. He supplements his own vocals with guest vocalists (Tony Adams, Ken Dinkins, Reba Russell, and Vince Johnson). As you would expect for a Memphian, there is a soulful feel underlying most of the music on offer, even the rockier songs like "Singin' The Blues" and "Let's Party". It is strongest on the excellent instrumental "Just Chillin", and the fine balladeering of "Bottom Line". Elsewhere there are even shades of Steely Dan ("Blue") and even CSNY ("All The People"). The band set a high standard throughout, although it does wane slighty on the last couple of tracks.
Billy Lavender's "Memphis Livin" is a good album. Lavender is a fine guitarist and songwriter, and also a good vocalist. Supported by a fine cast of musicians, it all adds up to an entertaining way to pass an hour."
- Gordon Baxter
Blues In Britain, UK print magazine
January 2, 2010 | 3:04 AM
"We did indeed receive Billy's latest CD. We have scheduled 3 cuts to receive air play. "Let's Party" "Cold As Ice" and "Shake It". I think our listeners will agree that Billy is an artist worth listening to."
- Ray Hansen
Blues Therapy Show
KWCW
Walla Walla
December 31, 2009 | 2:42 PM
"I'm on the Billy Lavender release. You can tell they had a lot of fun in the studio, it comes across on the CD. Nice variety of material."
- Chuck Haddock
The Fish Fry
KCUR FM
kcur.org
Kansas City, MO
December 31, 2009 | 8:00 AM
"As far as Billy's CD goes - Very nice! Solid, mature effort, and I like the fact that he's a musically sharing guy - putting together a great lineup. Some of m favorite Memphis folks are on this Disc - I LOVE REBA - She's a huge star up here in Quincy - played our Fest several times over the years - and Headlined it last time she was here - even selling 100 CD's that night! Brad Webb has played our Fest several times in several Bands, and has helped us bring up Memphis talent several times. And Morris has played in town a couple times also. So, I love getting the disc with an All-Star Memphis lineup! I will be including several tunes from this one on both of my shows in the month, though new shows on my WQUB shows until Mid-February. Billy's music will be a nice addition to the Memphis folks I've introduced to our local blues fans."
- Jerry Davis
WQUB
Quincy, IL
December 30, 2009 | 10:56 PM
"I really appreciate any and all CDs that you send my way. The Billy Lavender CD is very enjoyable with a wonderful array of Memphis talent. It's nice to know that your town has top notch players/artists like this."
- Linda Cain
www.chicagobluesguide.com
December 30, 2009 | 9:21 PM
"Great release! Have played "Let's Party," and "Cold As Ice" so far. Will be playing other tracks soon!"
- Ted Todd
The Blues Show
98.9 KKZX
Spokane, WA
December 30, 2009 | 4:15 PM
"I really liked this CD... Have asked one of our writers to review it for the Mar/Apr Blues News."
- Billy
Blues Society of Tulsa
December 30, 2009 | 2:57 PM
"Billy's record is in rotation and getting light spins... it's a solid body of songs and it will land in our permanent library once it's out of our new music area."
- Suzanne Cheavens
KOTO Music Director, etc.
Telluride, CO
December 30, 2009 | 1:50 PM
"Must have forgotten to send you the link:
Great album!"
- Holly Moors
www.moorsmagazine.com
The Netherlands
December 30, 2009 | 1:16 PM
"Tell Billy we like it a lot! He's going to crack our top 25 this month, with a bullet!"
- Frank Goza (Freewheelin' Franklin)
Blues Breakfast
WBGU 88.1
Bowling Green State University
Bowling Green, OH
December 30, 2009 | 11:44 AM
"Billy's going to be close to the #1 spot for December. Cheers!"
- Jeff / WMHB
Colby College, Waterville, ME
December 30, 2009 | 11:41 AM
"I thought Billy's CD was solid and had a few really strong tracks."
- Roger Gatchet
KVRX, Austin
December 30, 2009 | 11:24 AM
"It is in my Top 25 that I will be sending to Living Blues."
- Robert KSPQ
West Plains, MO
December 29, 2009 | 1:16 PM
"I inform you very happily, that the criticism of the CD is ready. It's good!
Brad Webb, Dan Cochran, Russell Wheeler, Reba Russell, Vince Johnson, Blind Mississippi Morris and the others, have gained reputation on the legendary Beale Street and who holds out here, can count on success at every stage in the world - but their qualities are proved with their common record as well."
- Attila
http://www.bluesvan.hu/
December 19, 2009 | 1:14 PM
Review: Billy Lavender - Memphis Livin
http://www.bluesinthenorthwest.com/
Memphis guitarist Billy Lavender received his first guitar 40 years ago and learned to play right-handed instruments left-handed and upside down, and after gigging for years in various syles has put out this fine blues album, with friend Steve Bryson of I55 Productions LLC, with "Memphis Livin" being produced by noted guitarist Brad Webb, and also featuring local talent such as Reba Russell, Blind Mississippi Morris, Vince Johnson, and Tony Adams, amongst a host of others.
Over the 14 tracks Lavender mainly lets his guitar do the talking, but only contributes a few vocals, with the rest shared by the afore-mentioned Reba Russell, Tony Adams, Vince Johnson, and also Ken Dinkins. The result is a very enjoyable modern Memphis album - lots of great blues, soul grooves, and some very radio friendly tracks - with the guitars of Lavender and Webb, coupled with Russell Wheeler's sparkling Hammond B-3 recreating some of the immortal Stax feel.
The second track "Let's Party" is a standout, a rip-roaring blues shuffle, with Memphis blues/soul queen Reba Russell on vocals and some lusty harmonica from Blind Mississippi Morris - Brad Webb's long-time musical partner; the pretty "Tonight" sees Lavender on all guitars, with impressive soulful vocal from Ken Dinkins. The instrumental "Just Chillin" rides on a funky groove, not a million miles away from David Bowie's huge hit "Fame" - this with Vince Johnson doing the harmonica honours, and featuring the tight rhythm section of Tony Adams (drums) and Mike Stoker (bass).
"Cold As Ice" is a nice mid-tempo blues with more fine harmonica from Vince Johnson, who also takes the vocal on this cut. Billy Lavender cuts loose on guitar and vocals on the roadhouse rocker "Get Along", leading to the lovely "Blue" - again with Reba Russell on vocal, electric sitar from Brad Webb, which recalls the Steely Dan classic "Do It Again" - very nice indeed!
The ensemble rock out on "Shake It" - another uptempo blues shuffle that features Vince Johnson - with the big ballad "Bottom Line" shifting the pace again, and star-of-the-show Reba Russell on smouldering vocal - if ever a track was made for radio, this is it! The big hook on it given extra feeling by Brad Webb's striking baritone guitar work, and Billy Lavender's stinging lead lines.
Elsewhere, the lowdown "Bad Boy" has a funky riff from Lavender and smoky vocal from Tony Adams; the soulful "3AM" catches that classic Memphis sound, with the sparse "If I Could" almost in The Beatles territory, with just Brad Webb's Dobro and Lavender's vocal and guitar. The closing "Delta Time" is, unsurprisingly, a swamp blues - a fine end to a most enjoyable release.
- Grahame Rhodes
November 24, 2009 | 8:19 AM
"Just a quick note to let you know I recieved this impressive release of Billy Lavender's "Memphis Livin". In fact, I plan on opening my show with a couple of cuts from it this afternoon. Thanks for making sure I got a copy to treat my listeners to."
- Al Lundy / Highway Blues
www.highwayblues.org
www.kzum.org
Highway Blues
November 20, 2009 | 12:23 AM
"I'm listening to it. It's a discovery for me. This man has a great energy, he can play in various styles, that's an advantage : the listeners are caught and attentive all along the music. I love."
- Serge WARIN
Radio Canal Bleu
OBJAT
France
November 18, 2009 | 8:34 AM
"Have just finished listening to Billy Lavender's CD and enjoyed most of that too. Loved the use of the sitar and I am a great lover of Hammond so loved the playing of Russell Wheeler on a number of tracks. Tony Adam's vocals are also very good. What a powerful voice!"
- ASHWYN
Digital Blues Gateway
November 14, 2009 | 12:35 PM
Memphis guitarist Billy Lavender has established a nice reputation in his hometown over the past several decades with his mix of blues, rock, and R&B influences, ranging from the Beatles to Grand Funk Railroad to Eric Clapton and Jimi Hendrix. He mixes all of these styles together on Memphis Livin’ (I55 Productions), which features him in tandem with a host of local singers and musicians, tackling a wide range of music with roots in the Bluff City.
The disc benefits from a talented group of vocalists, including drummer Tony Adams, who ably handles a trio of tunes (the soulful opener,“Singing The Blues,” the blues/rock shuffle, “Bad Boy,” and the closing swamp rocker, “Delta Time”) and Memphis soul belter Reba Russell, whose three tracks include the appropriately titled “Let’s Party” (which also features a fiery harp solo from Blind Mississippi Morris), “Bottom Line,” a mellow pop tune, and “Blue,” an interesting song with sitar from producer Brad Webb, who also contributes slide and rhythm guitar on multiple tracks.
Singer/harmonica player Vince Johnson gets three vocals, the slow blues, “Cold As Ice,” the uptempo “Shake It,” and “3 AM,” a late night soul/blues, and Ken Dinkins does a splendid job with the pop-styled “Tonight.” Lavender even takes his turn behind the mic on the rockabilly raver, “Get Along,” and a pair of songs, “All The People,” and “If I Could,” where his confident vocals lean more toward ’60s era pop/rock. “Just Chillin’” is a funky instrumental showcasing Johnson on harmonica and Lavender’s guitar.
Lavender’s fretwork is impressive, comfortably moving from blues to soul to rock without breaking a sweat. He also wrote or co-wrote most of the music on the disc. Memphis Livin’ is a wonderful tribute to the music of the Bluff City that rocks and grooves from start to finish in the finest Memphis tradition. It comes off as an informal session between longtime friends playing the music they know and love. Blues fans should not let this one slip past.
- Graham Clarke
Blues Bytes
October 20, 2009 | 9:13 AM
Inaugural Album from I55 Productions LLC
Memphis native Billy Lavender, in conjunction with I55 Productions LLC, assembles an all-star cast of Blues musicians to create "Memphis Livin", a unique homage to the talented artists straight off of Beale Street. Performing alongside Billy are musical legends Reba Russell, Blind Mississippi Morris, Brad Webb, Vince Johnson and Tony Adams to name just a few.
It’s a mighty long way from the figurative tracks of the Grand Funk Railroad to real funky Beale Street in Memphis. Guitarist William "Billy" Lavender has made that journey, in the process shedding bombast for soul and true inspiration. He was born December 2nd, 1959 in the city on the Mississippi named for the first capital of ancient Egypt that united two kingdoms, and Memphis could well be seen as uniting two cultures to create rock ‘n’ roll. Lavender took the initial influences of Mark Farner and then the Beatles, Eric Clapton and Jimi Hendrix and eventually spiced them with the sonic BBQ sauce of the blues and R&B of his hometown to create a personal musical statement.
Lavender received his first guitar 40 years ago and learned to play right-handed instruments left-handed and upside down. After countless gigs in a variety of genres and being hailed as the "go-to" guitar cat in town, he has joined forces with his friend Steve Bryson of I55 Productions LLC for "Memphis Livin" with a cast of top-flight local musicians, including numerous vocalists. Produced and engineered by veteran axe man Brad Webb, who also contributes guitar, sitar, bass and backup vocals, it is an enticing 14-song set of originals that range far and wide. "Singing the Blues" originally appeared on an album by harmonicist Blind Mississippi Morris and is pure Memphis soul featuring vocalist Tony Adams, who also plays drums, along with tons of hot picking from Lavender and searing slide guitar from Webb. Sultry singer Reba Russell sounds particularly convincing on the shuffling toe-tapper "Let’s Party" as Morris attempts to blow the reeds out of his harp. Ken Dinkins displays his velvet pipes on the pop Philly soul of "Tonight" as Lavender plays it sweet and melodic. Laid back, booty-shaking funk on the instrumental "Just Chillin’" provides a break before the long, late night slow blues of "Cold as Ice" allows Vince Johnson to sing like B.B. and blow harp like James Cotton.
Leader Lavender takes a rare lead vocal on the rockabilly "Get Along" with a social message borrowed from Rodney King. Reba Russell returns for the atmospheric, mid-tempo pop rock groove of "Blue" that contains exotic sitar from Webb. Taking yet another sharp turn, the band launches into the charging shuffle of "Shake It" as Johnson comes back exhorting and blowing the Mississippi saxophone while Lavender solos with consummate taste and swinging authority. Russell again leads the way on the anthemic "Bottom Line" that contrasts with the medium shuffling, blues rock of "Bad Boy" that has Tony Adams growling and beating the skins as Lavender throws "snakes" from his guitar. Johnson steps forward to sing pleadingly and play harmonica on the melancholy minor key blues "3AM." Reminiscent of "The Thrill is Gone," it contains an emotion-laden solo from Webb with a dash of jazz, and one from Lavender that succinctly expresses the ache of a broken heart. The boss again steps in front of the lead vocal mic for "All the People" that echoes the Fab Four, as does his lead singing on "If I Could". The set closes with the heavy levee blues of "Delta Time" as Adams gets way "down in the alley" and Lavender layers lead and rhythm guitars in a nasty, churning instrumental stew.
In this age of histrionics and pretension in the blues, it is refreshing to hear an experienced musician backed by his friends and having a great time playing all the music he knows and loves. It is a great tribute to Memphis and all involved.
- Dave Rubin,
Recipient 2005 KBA Award in Journalism
September 9, 2009 | 12:00 PM
Memphis: I55 Productions...what's cooking?
www.americanbluesblog.com/2009/11/memphis-i55-productionswhats-cooking.html
Tonight we visit with old friend Brad Webb who is the engineer and main man/producer/guitarist for I-55 Productions, a new label out of Memphis, Tennessee. Steve Bryson is the Executive Producer and President of I-55 and Steve is a noted entrepreneur and owner of many successful businesses.
I met with Brad and Steve recently and was delighted to learn that Steve has been appointed to the Board of Directors for the Blues Foundation. These guys are not only honoring the blues but taking proactive measures to release new music and promote blues artists.
From their website:
"I55 Productions LLC derived its name after the main highway traveling through Memphis, Tennessee. The idea behind the record label came from a Memphis native who found himself looking for ways to share some of the best local talent in his beloved hometown with the rest of the world."
I-55 has bought the old Mempho label record catalog and will soon release such great blues artists as the late Willie Foster and my old friend and band mate Fred Sanders, who played for decades in Memphis at one of the city's first big blues club, Blues Alley(now defunct) and also played tons of gigs around town and even in my band for at time.
Willie Foster's last cd, "My Inspiration," will soon be released on I55. I was fortunate to play keys on the recordings (and even a harp solo on one of the tunes). It is a fine blues cd and Mr. Willie played and sang with vigor on it despite his diminishing health.
He was a double amputee and was playing the blues from a wheelchair during this time. A couple of days after his second leg amputation, I saw him play a gig at the Black Diamond on Beale Street. The club owner, Bob Harding, worried about Willie's health , told him he did not have to play his last set that night. Mr. Willie was indignant and assured Bob that he WAS going to play the last set as he had promised the crowd he was coming back and he "would not let down all those nice people." Ain't that a man?
I-55 has signed Billy Lavender and they have already released Billy's cd, "Memphis Livin". It feature's performances from my friend and former band mate Tony Adams on drums, Brad and Billy on guitars, and Brad, Danny Cochran and Mike Stoker on bass parts.
Reba Russell, Tony Adams, harp man Vince Johnson all share the vocal tasks with Billy Lavender. Blind Mississippi Morris also plays harp on one of the record's tunes.
This is a fun blues based rocking Memphis record that offers lots of variety of sounds. The record has met with excellent reviews and I particularly like the Reba Russell song on the cd.
Tony Adams is also famous for writing a great book called "Drum Tuning Theory" and has worked as the drum tech with such fine artists as Matchbox 20 and Creed. Tony and I played lots of gigs with Brad Webb and Dan Cochran in Blind Mississippi Morris and the Pocket Rockets blues band. Here's a link to Tony's site where you drummers can check out his cool book:
http://www.tadrums.com/tad_book.htm
Brad has played and worked with Blind Mississippi Morris of the past 15 years and I shared a great experience touring England as keyboard player in Morris' band with our friend, Eddie Juke in the year 2000. Eddie has a cool studio in Mansfield, England and here's a link:
http://www.eddiejuke.com/index.htm
Over the years Brad has cut (engineered and performed on)5 cd's on Morris. Brad is now employed full time with I55 Productions but Brad and Morris still perform frequently at B.B. King's in Memphis.
As you can tell the label is embarking on lots of projects, not the least of which is a cd on my old friend Phillip Dale Durham who became famous for his fine drumming and singing with the band, Moloch, which recorded here in Memphis in the 1960's. The band, featuring Lee Baker and Don Nix, was famous for the recordings "Goin' Down" and my favorite, "Same Old Blues," which Phil just sings the hell out of both on the record and in live performances.
Phil and I have played in all sorts of bands over the years including an impressive stint we did with an Elvis impersonator and Phil is a delightful person and a monolithic talent. He constantly smiles, tells jokes and delivers some screaming vocals to this very day. As one of the unsung heroes of Memphis music, a celebration of Phil and his music are a well kept secret that is long overdue for being manifested to the world.
I know the music world is looking forward to hearing all the new products that I55 will be putting in the market. I will provide updates from them as time rolls on.
- Robert "Nighthawk" Tooms
American Blues Blog
September 8, 2009 | 11:48 AM
BILLY LAVENDER
MEMPHIS LIVIN'
I55 PRODUCTIONS LLC
SINGIN' THE BLUES -- LET'S PARTY -- TONIGHT -- JUST CHILLIN' -- COLD AS ICE -- GET ALONG -- BLUE -- SHAKE IT -- BOTTOM LINE -- BAD BOY -- 3AM -- ALL THE PEOPLE --IF I COULD -- DELTA TIME
"Memphis-born Billy Lavender got his first guitar at age ten, in 1969. Being a southpaw, he learned to play right-handed instruments upside-down, and influenced by Grand Funk Railroad, Hendrix, and Clapton, it wasn't long until he was one of the top session cats in town. He's known for a rock-tinged sound that's spiced with the down-home blues of his roots.
Billy has teamed with Steve Bryson of I55 Productions LLCto release "Memphis Livin'," fourteen cuts of the blues in various hues, all held together by Billy's tremendous chops and that decided "Memphis feel" that comes from a lifetime of absorbing the sounds that eminate from that culture-rich city.
He's also joined by an "A-List" of backing musicians that are some of the best on the Bluff City scene, including Tony Adams, Blind Mississippi Morris, Reba Russell, and Ken Dinkins, to name a few. Adams kicks things off with one of Morris' tunes, "Singin' The Blues," punctuated by some fine interplay between Billy's lead and Brad Webb's slide. "Shake It" is a mean slice of North Mississippi juke joint boogie, beefed up by Vince Johnson's harp and vocals. Funk is the name of the game on the predominantly-instrumental "Just Chillin," and the set-closing "Delta Time." Each are buoyed by swamy backbeats and lead riffs that'll leave you wanting more.
We had a whopping four favorites, too. Mississippi Morris adds harp to the infectious vocals of Reba Russell on the stop-time toe-tapper, "Let's Party." The other three showcase Billy's vocals as well as his guitar lines. Remember back when the Beatles wanted to record "Revolver" in Memphis? Billy must've been captivated by that scenario, that, sadly, did not come to fruition over, as McCartney put it, "a little thing called money." However, on this set, Billy brings Beatle-esque harmonies and themes of love in two cuts, "All The People," and "If I could." And, Russell Wheeler's pile-driving piano drives the rockabilly-tinged ode to Rodney King's infamous question, entitled "Get Along."
Billy Lavender has shown us the varied sounds of Memphis thru the six strings on his guitar, and his friends that help him out on "Memphis Livin' make this one indeed an enjoyable ride!! Until next time...Sheryl and Don Crow."
- Don and Sheryl Crow
Nashville Blues Society Review
September 4, 2009 | 9:25 AM
"When Memphis diva, Reba Russell belts out, "Let's party!", she sets the tone; be ready to party as hard and long as if you were spending Saturday night on Beale Street. Guitarist Billy Lavender plays it all from gritty rock and roll to rockin' blues. Add in some of the city's finest like Russell, harp master Blind Mississippi Morris, guitarist Brad Webb, and vocalists Tony Adams and Vince Johnson and Lavender's partyin' with the best. Fire up the wheels, put a little Lavender in the CD player, and you'll be hanging' on Beale wherever you ride."
- Art Tipaldi
Contributing Editor, Blues Revue and Blues Wax
September 3, 2009 | 1:46 PM
"The sizzling fusion of blues, soul, and R&B on the compilation CD MEMPHIS LIVIN by Billy Lavender could have only originated in Memphis and have only been created by master guitarist Billy Lavender. This is one of the most uniquely original and satisfying albums of the year. Throughly Entertaining."
- Joan Turner - Freelancer
September 3, 2009 | 9:17 AM
"Memphis Soul and Blues veteran Billy Lavender has put together a fine album of different voices all working toward one goal... sweet, soulful blues. With his own world-weary vocals and sparkling guitar, Lavender leads a cast featuring the ethereal vocals of Reba Russell and the sandpaper smoothness of Vince Johnson's rich pipes."
- Jim White, BlueNotes
community.post-gazette.com/blogs/bluenotes/
September 3, 2009 | 9:03 AM
"Memphis Livin' is a wonderful tribute to the music of the Bluff City that rocks and grooves from start to finish in the finest Memphis tradition. It comes off as an informal session between longtime friends playing the music they know and love. Blues fans should not let this one slip past. "
- Graham Clarke,
"Blues Bytes."
August 27, 2009 | 5:24 PM
"So you've just bought a copy of Billy Lavender's new disc, "Memphis Livin." Don't play it just yet. Invite a few friends over, serve up some perfectly done ribs and pitchers of ice cold sweet tea, then crank up the music. This is a total Memphis experience. From the opening infectious groove of "Singin' the Blues" this record is drippin' with Memphis soul, much like those ribs you're eating. With a host of top notch Memphis musicians along for this ride, Lavender serves up fourteen tracks of original tunes that truly run the gamut of emotions. Among the many highlights are Ken Dinkin's great vocal take on "Tonight," the wonderful voice of Reba Russell on her lament to lost love, "Bottom Line," and Vince Johnson's deep bluesy rendering of "3 AM." All the musicians are in fine form, with an extra nod going to the outstanding guitar work of both Lavender and Brad Webb, the right on time percussion work of Tony Adams and the remarkably soulful keyboards of Russell Wheeler. If you love Memphis sound, this modern day version will whet your appetite right away. And just like those barbecued ribs, one helping of this record won't be enough. Go ahead, get yourself seconds of "Memphis Livin." You can thank me later."
- Brett Fleming "Soul Stew" WEVL
August 27, 2009 | 5:16 PM
" BILLY LAVENDER/ Memphis Livin': You can talk all the bullshit you want about in the tradition of this and in the tradition of that, but Lavender is a real throwback to the golden age of Memphis when Chips Moman and Stax could duke it out for your ears without really throwing any punches at each other. What this set is a throwback to is the golden age of diverse sounds pouring out of college dorms in that golden musical period between Woodstock and disco when anything went and the under the radar buffet was so well stocked your ears always rolled away from the table stuffed but ready to come back for more. Memphis music was multi-cultural long before it was hip, and back then it all sounded like greezy bbq music. This set by upside down guitarist brings it all back in fine form.
If you're looking for a no holds barred good time, set sail in this direction."
- Volume 32/Number300
MIDWEST RECORD
Lake Zunich, IL.
CHRIS SPECTOR, -Editor and Publisher
