Mose Chronicles: Live in London 2
After more than 50 years as a performer, Mose Allison is nothing if not a known commodity. His voice is thin and nasal, his piano playing is swingin' but not spellbinding. A gift for songwriting is what sets Allison apart--his sardonic lyrics are often filled with hilarious wit and acrobatic wordplay, and his arrangements are a vibrant mix of jumpin' jazz and urbane R&B.; Recorded live at London's Pizza Express, the 17 songs here are culled from the breadth of Allison's illustrious career, with a few Ellington covers ("Lucky So and So," "Do Nothing Till You Hear from Me") and the blues classic "Baby Please Don't Go" added for good measure. The band is right with Allison throughout, with guitarist Jim Mullen prominently featured. Adeptly capturing Allison at his best,Live in London, Vol. 2is certainly one for the fans, but it's not a bad place to start either.--Tad Hendrickson