Sadie Mae in Bloomington, MN

Many so-called
blues
releases are actually filled with bluesy
R&B
,
soul
pop
, and
rock
. There is no such stylistic confusion in
Sadie Mae
from
Nick Moss & the Flip Tops
. The music is no-nonsense
, played with spirit, drive, and swing. Most of the selections are concise, getting their message across and not overstaying their welcome. By varying tempos and moods plus including occasional instrumentals, the quintet performs enjoyable and memorable music, with an emphasis on cooking straight-ahead grooves. Lead voices are
Nick Moss
on guitar and vocals, harmonica player
Gerry Hunot
, and pianist
Bob Welsh
(doubling on organ), but the tight yet loose rhythm section is not to be overlooked either. This is a fun set, well worthy of several listens. ~ Scott Yanow