Blues Hall of Fame harmonica master Pete Karnes played with many of the legends like Big Walter Horton, Willie Dixon, John Lee Hooker, Robert Lockwood, J.B. Hutto, Lightnin’ Slim – you can hear the authenticity in his voice and playing. Portland’s own “Boogie Man” says he still ready to “boogie ‘til you drop!” He’s a blues harp master, committed to Chicago blues, and Bar Room Blues is true to the blues, featuring his singing and playing harp from the heart. This live CD was recorded at the historic White Eagle Saloon.
Charlie Musselwhite says… “Pete Karnes has a new CD out and it is long overdue. Back in the day there was a tremendous blues scene in Portland. There still are some good blues because Portland is and always has been a good blues town, but nothin’ is what it used to be. But Pete Karnes sure still is. He’s kept true to the blues….singing and playing harp from his heart. It’s very satisfying to listen to this live blues recorded at the wonderful old White Eagle club which has featured live blues for as long as I can remember and is still doing it. This CD captures the sound and the feel of Portland blues as if time never stopped and is still alive and well in Portland. And Pete Karnes is certainly still alive and well and singing and playing as well as ever. You won’t hear any gimmicks here…it’s all straight from the heart blues and I’m knocked out to know these guys, especially Pete, have stood their ground and are still playing the blues. Tunes like “Back Door Man” and “How Did It Go This Far” really stand out for me. Also, South of the Border is a LOT of fun and shows Pete’s influence by our mutual friend and mentor Shakey Horton. Any blues lover would appreciate this CD and if you had any experience with the Portland blues sound this will warm your heart. I ain’t lyin’!”
