The joining of forces between award-winning blues harp master Jason Ricci and singer, songwriter, guitarist JJ Appleton has produced one of the most unexpected and exciting blues music releases in 2015. Containing original songs that nod to Delta blues and roots history, Dirty Memory stakes a claim in modern Americana authenticity to bring raw, powerful emotions and world-class musicianship in an acoustic format. Ricci’s fiery harp performances blend perfectly with Appleton’s deep, wry, truthful songs and fierce resonator guitar skills. The recording’s intensity is pushed even higher with upright bassists Tim Lefebvre (Tedeschi Trucks) and Neal Heidler (Eddie Harris), bringing fat bottom grooves to the album’s already supple tracks.
Eleven cuts mix gutbucket blues and field holler stomps, old-time lamentations and a touch of Cajun Americana. Appleton wrote five new songs for the album, while Ricci contributes three of his originals including the autobiographical, “New Man” and “Demon Lover.” The carefully chosen cover songs also run the gamut of styles and include Blind Willie Johnson’s “Nobody’s Fault But Mine,” the Stones “Black Limousine” and “It Ain’t No Use,” from Gary U.S. Bond. Of course Ricci fans of blazing harmonica theatrics get a serving during his solo track at the album’s center. Appleton’s production captures the charged atmosphere of the sessions.
“Appleton and Ricci have done a great job of keeping Piedmont blues tradition alive.”
Richard Ludmerer/Making A Scene
