Brian Curran – Straight Up Blues
{2001}

This is Curran’s first CD, 13 tracks, 9 originals.

While not a bad attempt at a first, at times it strayed across the country line. There was an abundance of instrumental tracks. Keep in mind Brian is a young man, fast forward a couple years, add some more musicians to this guys accompaniment he will be fantastic.

“Bring the Flowers” was a pretty good song, nice walking lines, very bluesy.

“St. Louis Stomp” was a country instrumental track, a banjo would have been cool.

“I Believe in Love” was one of my favorite songs, I liked the harmonica.

“Southbound” was reminiscent of a Delta Blues, the melody seemed a little simple and repeats often, there was a cool walking line towards end of song.

“Preachin’ Blues” has a quicker tempo than most, liked the slide.

“You Got to Have Me” reminded me of a sunny day 60’s song, the tune had great vocals.

“Love Bug” sounded too country, not bad finger pickin’, wouldn’t be my choice for blues CD.

“Driftin’ Blues” was the best song on the CD. Very much of a Robert Johnsonesque tune.