ROOMFUL OF BLUES
The 1st Album (Hyena Records)
Reviewed by Eric Steiner

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Roomful of Blues' first album has been around awhile. "Since its original release on Island, Roomful's First has been out on Rounder, Rhino and 32, and no matter what label it's on at what point in time, it always seems to find an audience," says reissue (and original 1st Album producer) Joel Dorn. He's right. Roomful's stock in the blues trade has always been closer to a big band sound over the gritty blues of the Windy City, and the First Album jumps and swings all over the dance floor with "Duke's Blues," "Red, Hot and Blue," and "Honey Hush," among other gems on this reissue. Dorn was there at the controls on the original with Doc Pomus, and he was there behind Hyena's re-release. Roomful of Blues continues to draw sell-out crowds with a new line-up from this original band, but The First Album set the bar very high with Duke Robbillard on guitar, Preston Hubbard on bass fiddle and John Rossi on drums, with the knockout horn section of Richard Lataille, Doug James and Greg Piccolo. For great jump blues and swing, get The First Album.

Track List:

Red, Hot and Blue * Love Stuck * That's My Life * Duke's Blues * Texas Flood * Give It Up * Stormy Monday * Take It Like a Man * Still In Love With You * Honey Hush

© 2003 - Eric Steiner