[Harp-L] Re:Improv in Blues : Re: Shakin Smith

[AV1901@xxxxxxx]

Mike:
 
I said I listened to all the MP3's on the web site you referenced. My  
comments clearly stated this, and did not generalize to the artist's work as a  
whole. I stick with my statement based on what I heard there. If you only listen  
to those MP3s on his site, and you know and use the licks of SBWII, you gotta  
say Shakin' was influenced by SBWII. His own posted bio tends to support my  
position. And being influenced by SBWII is not a bad thing.
 
I'll say this, as a general statement, many harp players sound better live  
than on CD/MP3. I'll take your word for it on Shakin Smith, as I've never  
seen/heard him live. You clearly know more about this player than I do. Does he  
ever get outside Buffalo? I'm near Philly.
 
Just my opinion - on the MP3s *you* suggested Harp-Lers listen to - I  didn't 
hear much new ground, except the last cut. And I like 'old ground' stuff  
done well, which is what Shakin' seemed to be doing there. New ground for  new 
ground's sake sometimes leaves me cold.
 
Its all good.
 
Andy Vincent