Keepin It Real
It's pretty rare for a harmonica player to be a breakout success, but it seems as though Rod Piazza could do it withKeepin’ It Real. It's a perfect synthesis in every way: his Chicago-meets-West Coast style offers a canny blend of songwriting and musicianship, originals and covers. The Mighty Flyers hum along like a well-oiled machine with plenty of chances to shine. The appropriately titled "Big Blues Party" kicks things off right, and songs like "Good Morning Little School Girl," "Baby Please Don't Go," and "Pretty Thing" are handled with both freshness and a respect for tradition; the original songs are brimming with energy. Piazza, a multiple Handy winner who consistently draws comparisons to the masters, has the necessary invention and versatility for mainstream success.--Genevieve Williams