Snooky Pryor & His Mississippi Wrecking Crew
The late-career bloom of amplified harmonica pioneer Snooky Pryor continues in fine style as the irrepressible octogenarian leads a band of kindred spirits through a set of old-fashioned, soul-satisfying blues. Pryor sparkles in a setting where he is surrounded by his peers: pianistPinetop Perkins, eight years his senior; veteran guitarist Mel Brown (Neck Bones & Caviar); and the classic rhythm section of drummer Willie "Big Eyes" Smith and bassist Bob Stroger. Guest guitaristJeff Healeyspices things up on three tracks, but it is the well-seasoned blues bond of the band that carries the day. Pryor is still blowing strong, and his testifying tone, both on the harp and in his expressive vocals, is put to excellent use, especially on an extended take ofSonny Boy Williamson's "Decoration Day." Perkins, taking the vocal on a personalized version of "Pinetop's Grinder Man Blues" and scattering propulsive piano lines through every tune, is a perfect musical partner for Pryor. Combined with unsung guitar hero Brown and anchored by the redoubtable rhythm section, Pryor struts with his usual enthusiastic expertise.--Michael Point