When the word blues comes up for discussion in New Orleans musical circles, the name Smoky Greenwell is certain to be mentioned. Since taking up the harmonica in the 1970’s he has performed with a virtual who’s who among nationally and locally renowned musicians, including being a former member of the band War and Blues Co-op with Warren Haynes, in addition to fronting his own blues bands for many years.
Never previously released, Live at the Old U.S. Mint was recorded live in the Performing Arts Center of the Old U.S Mint and consists mainly of songs Smoky Greenwell has studio-recorded at other times in his long performing career. This is his 10th release. All of his previous records have received rave reviews and won numerous awards, including: “Coolest Blues Song of the Year” (Big City Blues), “Best Harmonica player” and “Best Blues CD” (Offbeat Magazine I New Orleans). Smoky is currently in the studio working on an all new recording scheduled to be released this Fall.
“Backed by his longtime core group of Jack Kolb (guitar), David Hyde (bass), and Pete Bradish (drums and vocals), Greenwell is joined here by the talents of Bruce “Sunpie” Barnes on accordion and vocals and Mark Penton on guitar. For Smoky Greenwell fans who enjoy his live shows, this record and the DVD that goes with it are must haves!’ Breakthru Magazine
“While he’s an impressive, quasi jazz-like saxrnan (“Peter Gunn”), Greenwell’s truly the harmonica master (his mainstay instrument), cutting and juking with superior tone and technique!” Offbeat Magazine