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Mose Allison: The Mose Chronicles: Live In London, Volume 2

By Jim Santella
February 1, 2002
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“Tell me something that I don’t know,” sings Mose Allison on one of his tongue-in-cheek originals. Twelve more of his songs and several familiar standards comprise Volume 2 from his recent London appearance. Recorded just over two years ago at the Pizza Express, Allison added guitar for this set. Quirky and original, the singer/pianist carries on the tradition. Blues humor and jazz syncopation make fine companions. Who else do you know that sings about one’s molecular structure, one’s mouth that works overtime, or one’s desire to raise hell on his day off? Well, okay. Maybe that last one expresses a common theme, but no one says it quite like Mose Allison does.

Jim Mullen’s blues guitar interludes make a big difference for this volume. As expressive as Allison’s – but in a different way – the guitarist’s solos ooze with deep emotion. The pianist, on the other hand, always adds a lighter, rhythmic flair to his interludes. Each of his solos creates an energetic romp that further amplifies his quirky singing style. Allison is a storyteller. The energy and wit he delivers keeps you on your toes.

Track Listing

Just Like Livin'; Lucky So & So; Swinging Machine; Tell Me Something; Molecular Structure; One Of These Days; Your Mind Is On Vacation; Baby Please Don't Go; Fool's Paradise; City Home; Going To The City; Days Like This; Wild Man On The Loose; Do Nothin' Till You Hear From Me; Foolkiller; Don't Forget To Smile; You Can Count On Me To Do My Part;

Personnel

Mose Allison

piano and vocals

Mose Allison- piano, vocal; Roy Babbington- bass; Jim Mullen- guitar; Mark Taylor- drums.

Album information

Title: The Mose Chronicles - Live In London, Volume 2 | Year Released: 2001 | Record Label: Blue Note

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About Mose Allison

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Instrument: Piano and vocals

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