Ry Cooder, like Boz Scaggs and Steely Dan, has his own brand of genre. You might've heard his version of "Little Sister," and it gives Bruce Springsteen, Elvis Presley and all of the other better-known artists a spanking.
The man (Ry Cooder, of Ry Cooder And The Chickenskin Band plays with a crazy mixture of calypso, rock-a-billy, Mexicano and New Orleans soul - I even detect a strong but subtle gospel influence. He has a clear, strong straight voice filled with the joy that only comes from loving what you do. He is backed by three black brothers, great thumbing bass, and Flaco Jimanez on the funkiest, accordion that you've ever heard. Percussion is great. Sax is fabulous.
But on all cuts, including this one, "Smack Dab In The Middle",) nobody outplays or overshadows anyone else -- it's all about the music and none of it about ego or showmanship.
In addition to his clear joyous voice voice, he plays an incredibly tasteful rock guitar with terrifically tasty riffs, never overplaying, always clear... as if Ry were punctuating the music. The background vocals and percussion are pure, sweet and never overdone.
The bottom line is that Ry Cooder is a terrific musician, a great arranger, a great studio quality player and he puts on a beautifully balanced show -- he treats his audience to his love of music. And great gosh a'mighty does he rock. RadioDAZZ and the DAZZman bring you Ry Cooder.
Forward this to all of your colleagues and music loving pals through your magical channels on the social media circuit. If I wanted a tuna melt, I'd request it on Ry. He's one of my favorite songmasters...and what a show he puts on. High, positive energy. The "together" sound of musicians loving the music that they are playing.
Click on the link or display below and enjoy a great rock song with hysterical lyrics and let the joy fill your heart, soul and mind. You'll be hearing more of him from your Uncle Dazz. Count on it! Listen, and then spread the word!
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4uLrbodN-9A
Thanks for letting RadioDAZZ into your gypsy soul! Love Y'all.
***
How about these others by Boz: "The Harbor Lights," "We're All Alone," "Georgia" and the wildest one of all -- it sounds like a drug-crazed Native American chant - "Hard Times" on the album "Down Two Then Left."
Your Uncle DAZZ is a major league Boz Scaggs fan, and always will be. His personal brand of music is unique in its genre...not unlike the music of Steely Dan or of Ry Cooder. Love 'em all.
Make sure you tell someone that you love 'em. Don't wait too long. Please.