CANDYE KANE "SUPERHERO" Source: Vintage Guitar Magazine Date: 07/2009 Writer: Dan Forte

Candye Kane: Superhero

Anyone tapped into the blues circuit has doubtless heard about Candye Kane's battle with, and ultimate victory over, pancreatic cancer that she was diagnosed with in early 2008. Invariably first in line when it came to playing benefits for musicians in need and innumerable causes, it was only fitting that musicians around the globe rallied with fundraisers for the singer, facing surgery with little savings or health insurance.

As she has her whole obstacle-filled life, Ms. Kane has emerged seemingly stronger than ever, proclaiming " I'm a super hero; I keep on fighting; There's no way I'm laying down and dying." The 15 song set ranges from belting shuffles (Jack Tempchin's "Till you go too far") to the moody, Otis Rush tinged " I put a Hex on You" and the Wanda Jackson-esque rocker "Throw it in the Trash Can Love."

Hacienda Brother Dave Gonzales' twangy baritone guitar opens the title track and Kid Ramos swings and stings on "I Like Em' Stacked Like That" ( a duet with Mitch Kashmar). But the guitar star of the show is co-producer Laura Chavez. If you haven't already seen her downright scary version of "Little Wing" on youtube, this 20-something will come as a revelation. On "Hex" (one of the half dozen songs she co-wrote with Kane), she combines a killer instinct with mature-beyond-her-years taste. To note that you'll be hearing more from her is like saying "K eep an eye on Tal Wilkenfeld." Check out her snarling solo on Willie Dixon's "You Need Love." She's not a rising star - she's already arrived.

The album closes appropriately with Kane, a cappella, singing "I'm gonna be just fine," Believe it. - DF