Mose Allison: The Mose Chronicles: Live In London, Volume 1

Recorded last January at The Pizza Express in London, The Mose Chronicles represents the kind of performance Mose Allison offers in locations around the globe. Volume one and its to-be-released companion album concentrate on Allison’s older material; songs that his audience remembers. Performing over 125 gigs a year at the age of 73, Allison stands as proof those theories must be right – those theories about the syncopation and swing of jazz contributing to better physical health. A massage from the inside out?

It’s been three years since Allison’s last album. Gimcracks And Gewgaws included quite a few newer songs. With over a hundred fifty songs to his credit, Allison has made quite an impact throughout his 50-year career. The songwriter’s ironic wit sticks to your ribs, while his backwoods singing style enhances the humor. Allison’s piano accompaniment and solo excursions, however, add a different quality. His crisp, clear, bouncy keyboard work provides the key ingredient. Mose Allison brings to the audience a straight-ahead piano trio that satisfies the soul.

Some arrangements, such as “You Are My Sunshine,” carry a unique harmonic or rhythmic banner. Others offer snappy lyrics with philosophical overtones. “The good gets better and the bad gets worse.” “The things that really matter don’t mix with idle chatter.” “I’m not downhearted, but I’m gettin’ there.” Mose Allison offers the best of both worlds – good music and thought-provoking lyrics. Live or on CD, he’s a don’t-miss opportunity.