© Bluestronomical Publishing Inc. 2007

Mem Shannon
Live: A Night At Tipitina's
Northern Blues (NPM0041)

Mem Shannon is a former cab driver from New Orleans who left the cab business for the life of a professional musician. Since 1995, Mem has released five studio albums on various labels. Live At Tipitina's is his first live album. The music on the album has its roots in the blues, but also contains generous doses of R&B, funk and rock. Recorded on February 9, 2007, the disc features Mem up front on guitars and vocals backed by a keyboard player, bass player, drummer and a three man horn section.
Big drums, a funky bass player and the brass section immediately greet the listener at the opening of the disc on a tune called "Payin' My Dues"  on which Mem describes the trials and tribulations of a working blues musician. The next tune "Smell Something" is a funky tune showcasing the bass work of Angelo Nocentelli. Shannon's strong vocals and guitar chops are showcased on "No Religion". "Who Are They" is a tune that recalls Walter 'Wolfman' Washington's work. The highlight of the disc is the tune "All I Have". The lyrics and music portray the feeling of loss that too many people in New Orleans felt after losing their homes, possessions and loved ones after Katrina. Another tune appearing on the album that seems to convey a message about surviving Katrina is a cover of Tom Petty's "I Won't Back Down". The last two tunes on the disc are showcases for the band. With both tunes clocking in at over ten minutes everyone in the band gets to cut loose for a break or two.

Live At Tipitina's is a document of a really tight band that has the ability to span multiple genres of music. While not a traditional blues album, this disc is an enjoyable listen and Mem Shannon is a fine songwriter. Well worth it if you like your blues a little on the funky side.

- Barry Gober -


Southwest Blues CD Review - November 2007

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