John Mooney is an acoustic blues master who apprenticed with Son House. He takes the sounds of the delta and syncopates them with the percussion of the Crescent City. John Mooney and Bluesiana have toured the world with their brand of roots rock. He is a staple of the New Orleans scene and always an integral part of The New Orleans Jazz and Heritage Festival. His last release "All I Want" in 2002 received rave reviews. This time however John Mooney exceeds all expectations, never has John's songwriting skills been sharper, his impeccable guitar playing more articulate or his enthusiasm greater.
With a band that includes special guest, piano great John Cleary along with Jeff Sarli, bass; Alfred Uganda Roberts, Congas (Professor Longhair's percussionist); and Raymond Webber, drums; John Mooney gives us the most passionate lyrics of his career. Opening with "2 Get 2 Heaven, you have to go thru hell", John has written nine of the eleven songs. "Big Ol' Fiya, in this house tonight" and "Dig My Way 2 China", are two more of the album's outstanding performances as John's voice is at his very best.
Next John covers Son House's "Louise McGhee". "I got the blues 3 different ways, I got two mind to leave here, and I ain't got but one said stay". The "Grateful Dead" sounding, "Kiss Me" (thanks to John Cleary's piano) and "Do You Love Me" are two more John Mooney originals. Next is John's version of Grayson Capps's "Drink A Little Poison 4 U Die" with John Cleary on Hammond B-3 and Bernard "Bunchee" Johnson, drums. Its second line beat will make you loose your seat because there is no way you won't get up and dance.
"Been Working All Day Baby", follows. Then John sings "Love is a funny thing, it cracks me up every time I lose again," in "U Keep Me Hangin' On". John closes with "Real Life", and "No' Bout Me". This album is something very special for Louisiana fans, and one of the year's best releases. Visit John Mooney's website for his news and tour dates www.johnmooneylive.com
"Big Ol' Fiya" Review
