CANDYE KANE "SUPERHERO" Source: BluesWax Date: 08/2009 Writer: Richard Ludmerer

Candye Kane: Superhero

Candye Kane first came to my attention in 1997 when she released her third CD on the Antone's label. Diva La Grandewas a mixture of bawdy originals and Bluesy Western Swing. Featured musicians included co-producers Dave Alvin and Derek O'Brien, while guest vocalists included Big Sandy and Toni Price. The highlight for me was a cover of Lee Hazelwood's "These Boots Are Made For Walkin'," famously recorded by Nancy Sinatra. On each subsequent album there were always some pleasant surprises.

In early 2008 Kane was diagnosed with pancreatic cancer. Always a strong gal, she met the situation head on, and when she attended the 2009 Blues Music Awards in Memphis this May she was cancer free. Having lost seventy-five pounds in the process and survived the ordeal seems to have given her new strength.

In March, Kane went into the studio and recorded this new album, her ninth overall and first for Delta Groove. Kane has always been talented with a voice that has clarity and power. With sparse arrangements and a no-nonsense sensibility, Superhero is one of the year's best CDs. Her guitarist Laura Chavez lays down solos worthy of further recognition, and bassist Paul Loranger and Kane's son Evan Caleb on drums are up to the task.

Covers include two songs written by Jack Tempchin, author of "Peaceful Easy Feeling," the megahit made famous by The Eagles and a favorite writer of Kane's. On "Who's Been Sleeping In My Bed" and "Till You Go Too Far," Chavez's guitar punctuates the vocals. "I'm A Bad Bad Girl" is from a 1950's recording by Little Esther Phillips. "You Need Love" is the Willie Dixon classic which became "Whole Lotta Love" by Led Zeppelin, and its importance here should be noted. "Picture of You," written by the Farage brothers, provides for some sentimental pondering.

Kane's friends and fan base provided support that helped her through those troublesome times. During her downtime, Kane inspired herself by writing songs which empowered her. On "Superhero," the title track, its Chavez's guitar that is right in the middle of the mix. "Hey! Toughen Up!" is inspirational Candye, and Chavez's surf guitar on "I Put A Hex On You" might just make it a nominee for Song of The Year. These songs and three others were co-written with Chavez: "I Didn't Listen To My Heart," "Don't Cry For Me New Jersey," and the rockin' "Throw It In The Trash Can Love," featuring Dave Gonzales of The Hacienda Brothers as an added guitarist. Also written by Kane are "You Can't Stop Me From Loving You," "Ik Hou Van Je (Means I Love You)," and a vocal duet with harmonica ace Mitch Kashmar on "I Like 'Em Stacked Like That." On the latter, Kid Ramos guests on guitar. On the closing track, Kane declares "I'm Gonna' Be Just Fine." The album is co-produced by Kane and Chavez.

If you haven't taken Candye Kane seriously before, now is the time to listen. This is a great album and the best of her career.