Album Review of
Bob Corritore & Friends: Women in Blues Showcase

Written by Duane Verh
April 23, 2023 - 6:03pm EDT
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Harp-meister Bob Corritore’s archival stash yields yet another tasty assemblage, this one showcasing first-rate female talent.  Koko Taylor’s highly Willie Dixon-esque original “What Kind Of Man Is This” is a safe airplay bet as is Diunna Greenleaf’s ferocious work on Mr. Dixon’s own “Don’t Mess With The Messer”. Other highlights include Valerie June’s roots-bound take on the traditional “Crawdad Hole” and Carol Fran’s old-school delivery on her ballad “I Just Need A Friend”.  An arguably best-for-last entry is Francine Reed’s smoldering reading of Pops Staple’s “Why Am I Treated So Bad”.  Of course, Mr. Corritore’s savvy, sturdy harmonica work appears in abundance.