CANDYE KANE "SISTER VAGABOND" Source: Nashville Blues Society Date: 08/2011 Writer: Don and Sheryl Crow

"Sister Vagabond"

One can get a fairly good autobiographical idea of the persona of Candye Kane by perusing the titles of her uniquely-eclectic discography. Always the "Knockout," and forever a "Diva La Grande," she's evolved into a musical "Superhero" and, to many, is indeed "The Toughest Girl Alive." On her latest release for Delta Groove, "Sister Vagabond," Candye and her big voice blast thru thirteen cuts of not only the swingin' jump-blues that she's built her career around, but several cuts that meld beautifully with her bold, brassy style.

Guitarist and writing partner Laura Chavez adds a cool vibe with her stinging, retro-fied licks, enhancing the ambience of tha album. You gotta love a woman who's sole purpose is to please you, as Candye croons in the leadoff "I Love To Love You." The eerie tale of a love gone terribly awry would fit the soundtrack to any John Waters film and is entitled "Walkin' Talkin' Haunted House." Candye and David Mosby duet on the playful "Side Dish," and Laura Chavez' guitar gives Candye's cover of Brenda Lee's "Sweet Nothin's' a swampy, Excello feel.

We had two favorites, too. Eddie Baytos' frottoir and accordion give a Louisiana feel to a classic kiss-off song, "Have A Nice Day.' And, Candye pulls out all the stops on the Sixties' girl-groups-inspired "Love Insurance."

Candye Kane has scored again with "Sister Vagabond's bluesy sound and her dynamite vocals and always-clever songwriting. Look for this one to be a front-runner come Blues Award time next year!!! Until next time...