STEVE GOODMAN
Live Wire (Red Pajamas)
Reviewed by Eric Steiner

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John Prine is keeping Steve Goodman's legacy alive through the Red Pajamas label, part of Prine's Oh Boy boutique that includes the Blue Plate, Mountain Stage, and First Generation labels. Prine's dedicated Red Pajamas to the life and music to Steve Goodman, one of America's most prolific singer-songwriters. Live Wire's 17 songs captures Steve Goodman with a full band, and he's in top form in this rare live set from the late 70's. Goodman, along with Prine, Bonnie Koloc, the Holstein Brothers, and Jim Post, were part of a Chicago folk renaissance that kept clubs like the Earl of Old Town or the Quiet Night full well past closing time. I used to catch Goodman at the Earl solo or with country legend Jethro Burns. Steve had been fighting leukemia since 1969, and I always hoped to hear him with a band. On Live Wire, I've finally got my wish. Sure, "City of New Orleans" is here, but there's some welcome surprises for long-time Steve Goodman fans like "The Dutchman," "My Old Man," and the sadly wistful "Would You Like to Learn to Dance." The Roches sit in on "Tossin' and Turning," but my favorite is the closer, "Crazy Mary." Thanks, John, for keeping Steve Goodman's memory and talent alive.

Track List:

You're The Girl I Love * Banana Republics * Luxury's Lap * The One That Got Away * This Hotel Room * The Dutchman * City Of New Orleans * Men Who Love Women Who Love Men * Hand It To You * Would You Like To Learn To Dance * What Have You Done For Me Lately * It's A Sin To Tell A Lie * Old Smoothies * The Auctioneer * My Old Man * Tossin And Turnin * Crazy Mary

© 2001 - Eric Steiner