Mark Sallings and the Famous Unknowns
Talkin' To Myself
(Vent Records VR300011)
Mark Sallings is the harmonica/sax
player/vocalist that fronts the Famous Unknowns, longtime stalwarts of the Memphis scene.
Sallings is known as one of the hot contemporary harp players around today. He's a master
on the high end of the harp, an area where many fear to tread. And he uses the tongue
blocking technique effortlessly and, I think, more effectively than any of his peers.
However, what really separates him from many other harp player/front men on the circuit
today is songwriting. Time will tell if they're classics, but songs like "Up Close
And Personal" have got a chance. In fact, that song's been around a while. I've got
an autographed copy floating around somewhere from an earlier release. "Everybody
Looks Blue To Me" is darn nice work, as well. The title track is also outstanding,
one I'd love to hear live again. "Trash Talkin' " is a nice number with a cool
rhythm and cool message, too. Tony Spinner is a nice foil on guitar to the harp, and turns
in some sharp solos. He's back for his second recording with the band. I recommend you buy
this disc and put it on at your next party and count the dancers. Check out the air harp
players, too. Catch 'em live, if you can, and feel the power.
- Jack Oblander -
Southwest Blues CD Review - June 1999
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1999 Reviews - available at our store
