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ROD
PIAZZA "FOR THE CHOSEN WHO"
Source: DATE (Dining/Arts/Teater/Entertainment)
Date: 07/2005
Writer: Francis Rateau |
In
the 1960’s, young Rod Piazza discovered the blues
and learned the craft from its masters, especially from
George “harmonica” Smith, with whom he recorded
in a group called Bacon Fat. And from the beginning,
Rod’s virtuosity and proud precision marked him
as a tough torch-bearer of the blues tradition.
He’s
been playing harmonica professionally longer than
legendary Little Walter lived. His latest project,
“For the Chosen Who,” has been released
by L.A.’s Delta Groove Productions, one of the
finest sources of modern blues recordings, and includes
a DVD of compelling interest.
Delta
Groove honcho and producer Tandy Chortkoff says, “The
blues of Muddy Waters and the blues of Robert Johnson,
and the blues of people like Little Walter and Otis
Spann - people are just not exposed to that kind of
deep Blues.”
“For
The Chosen Who” covers a lot of deep blues territory,
with songs by Jimmy Reed, Jimmy Rogers and Sonny Boy
Williamson delivered with passion and showcased in
the making on the DVD. It’s a treat to watch
the recording of vocal tracks over instrumental parts
already laid down.
The
various discussions with Piazza and his wife, keyboardist
Honey Alexander, illuminate the commitment and passion
they hold for the music. Rod Piazza notes, “My
vision for this thing is to create an interest in
this music, sprouting from the ideas “ we loved
it so much, why can’t other people love it,
if they could be exposed to it?”
Piazza
tells stories of his days as a young disciple of the
Blues, and shares fascinating perspectives with guest
blues vets Finis Tasby, James Gadson and Phil Guy.
The segment of recording Little Walter’s “I
Got To Find My Baby” in a vocal duet with Johnny
Dyer, as they work out timing and tradeoffs, brings
a special spark
to the session.
Another
highlight is watching L.A. guitarist Kid Ramos play
with ferocious power, and hearing him enunciate his
appreciation of the music.
But
for me, the best viewing is the split-screen performance
of the female backup chorus, documenting their art
and unbridled joy. Gospel meets West Coast jump blues!
The
album alone stands as a fine rendition of true blues
traditions, but the extra punch of the accompanying
DVD makes this a delight for blues fans and wonderful
introduction for the next eager young Rod Piazza,
or anyone curious about this great American music. |
