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That's Big Little Charlie & the Nightcats Alligator Records, 2002
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Reviewed by Pamela L. Dow
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That's Big, the latest release by Little Charlie and the Nightcats, is certainly their finest work yet. On their eighth release with Alligator records the band covers a wide range of styles, from swing jazz, jump blues and rockabilly, to the familiar sound of Chicago blues. Listening to this 14 track recording, you can tell these guys had one heck of a good time putting it together. Cofounders Charlie Baty and Rick Estrin have been playing together since the 1970s, perfecting their sound and talents to a level unmatched by their peers. Little Charlie and the Nightcats play with pure passion and energy, showcasing their incredible talent as both musicians and songwriters. That's Big is loaded with original tunes by Estrin, a true storyteller with a wry sense of humor. A few examples, "Desperate Man," contains the line "I'm in love with a woman that I just can't stand." And the title track, "That's Big" where he describes his preference for larger women: "she's got all that meat and potatoes too." On several tracks, you can hear the influences of Little Walter and Sonny Boy Williamson II with Estrin's harp playing, especially on "I Know She Used To Be Your Woman." Baty is a virtuoso on guitar with some incredible guitar licks and powerful solo work found from start to finish. A few instrumentals that highlight his exceptional talent is "Bluto's Back," a dueling number with guest guitarist Rusty Zinn who also provides his guitar talent and vocals on "It Better Get Better" and "Bayview Jump," a high energy dance number that will certainly get you up on your feet. This also happens to be a debut recording for a couple of new Nightcats. Drummer Joey Ventitteli, who's original composition, "Real Love," is also the opening track and bassist Frankie Randall, who's talents are highlighted on "Steady Rollin' Man" and the backbone to "Bayview Jump." Both of these new additions fit right in, rounding out the rhythm section. That's Big by Little Charlie and the Nightcats is
a complete package from this West Coast band, not a weak
moment to be found. Baty and Estrin give this CD a one-two
punch with some hard-driving, powerful performances that
will leave you wanting more. A fine example of their
professional presentation and their very best effort as
exceptional musicians. | June 2002 |
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