SYL & JIMMY JOHNSON
Two Johnsons Are Better Than One (Evidence)
Reviewed by Eric Steiner

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Brothers in the blues, Syl and Jimmy Johnson have each carved out their own unique musical niches, but Two Johnsons Are Better Than One marks the first time that these two Chicago blues players have shared the studio together. Coming up, Syl leaned toward soul and rhythm and blues on the Shama, Hi and Twinight labels, while elder brother Jimmy made his mark with the Chicago sound on Delmark, Alligator, and Ruf, among others. They've been recording separately for over 50 years, and Evidence Records has brought them together for an hour of top shelf electric blues. "Bottoms Up" pairs the Johnsons' fine fretwork with Anthony Space's keyboards, and for a true six-minute blues guitar workout, check out "Ashes in the Ashtray." If you like your blues with heaping helpings of soul, the Johnsons are for you!

Track List:

Two Johnsons Are Better Than One * Uncomplicated Life * I Used to Be a Millionaire * Is It Because I'm Black? * If I Wuz White * If I Wuz White * I Feel the Pain * Oprah * Ashes in the Ashtray * Dangerous * Let Her Go * Living the Life * I Can't Survive * Goodie Goodie Goodtime * Bottoms Up

© 2002 - Eric Steiner