Chris Bergson: Blues (2004)

Jim Santella

Senior Contributor since 1997

Jim Santella has been contributing CD reviews, concert reviews and DVD reviews to AAJ since 1997. His work has also appeared in Southland Blues, The L.A. Jazz Scene, and Cadence Magazine.

Recent articles (1,677 total)

Published: March 20, 2004

Recorded live at New York's Smoke jazz club, this brief session digs deeps into the heart and soul of the blues. Chris Bergson sings ‘em the way he feels ‘em.

By answering each of his vocal phrases with pliant guitar licks, the artist is able to interpret each tale of woe with double barrels. His resounding voice hands over deep feelings of anguish and misery, while his guitar answers with a knowing pattern of hope.

All is not lost. The blues takes us so low, sometimes, that we nearly lose control. But it’s Bergson’s fluid guitar that carries us out of that quagmire. He lifts our spirits.

Freddie King’s “The Stumble” makes a significant impression, as the trio turns the affair into a momentary instrumental revue. Loping with a hearty swing, guitar, organ and drums prance all over town in their Sunday finest. It’s a time to celebrate.

Elsewhere, the twenty-five and half minute album concentrates on a combination of Bergson’s vocal blues and his rescuing guitar. His woeful tales hit home. We’ve all been there. Which of us cannot say that he’s never experienced lost love, lonesome days & nights, or temporary dreams that slipped through our fingers? Bergson’s session provides comfort.

Visit Chris Bergson on the web.

Track Listing: Staring at the Clock; Come and Gone; Little Girl Blue; The Stumble; Cold November.

Personnel: Chris Bergson- vocals, guitar; Brian Charette- B3 Hammond organ; Matt Wilson- drums.

Style: Blues