JASON RICCI & NEW BLOOD "DONE WITH THE DEVIL" Source: BluesArt.at Date: 06/2009 Writer: Norman Darwen

Blues reflects the life of the practitioner and so it is no great surprise that this does not conform to the Blues stereotype – neither does Jason. Then again, just when I thought I had him pegged as a pretty good harmonica player, along comes his cover of Mongo Santamaria’s ‘Afro Blue’ – and his playing is absolutely stunning, as is that of the whole band. As a singer he can be a little affected, as was say, Screamin’ Jay Hawkins, and he is not afraid to make explicit his sexual orientation in the lyrics to these intelligent songs. The band is co-credited, which is as it should be as their contribution is a huge one. Shawn Starski’s guitar work is wonderfully versatile, and overall, this is a, excellent and totally successful modern blues-based set which incorporates elements from jazz, classic rock, punk and country. Recommended.