Anni Piper

More Guitars Than Friends

Sugar Daddy Records

Anni Piper is an Aussie who was first influenced to pick up a guitar by listening to Stevie Ray Vaughan. Although sometimes called “Australia’s First Lady of The Blues” her music is oftentimes more roots-rock than otherwise with touches of Nashville and Americana. She released her first album “Jailbait” in 2004. She is not afraid to use her feminine wiles as it has been said that she can “lull men to their doom”. She has been called the “Bettie Page of the Blues” due to her wardrobe and propensity for modeling.

In 2008 Piper signed with Bluesleaf Records and released “Two’s Company”.  She followed up with 2010’s “Chasin’ Tail”. Her last studio recording was 2013’s “Split Second” on which she collaborated with label mate Nicole Hart.

In 2014 Piper permanently moved to the states and now resides in Cocoa Beach, Florida. Her new band includes herself, bass and vocals; Dave Kury, guitar; Frank Hetzler, drums; Executive Co-producer Mike Franklin, keyboards; and Charlie de Chant, saxophone.

Piper is a good songwriter and has written seven of the ten songs included. Her bass guitar opens the humorous “Wonder Woman” as she laments “I wonder what I saw in you”. “Buckle Bunny” is a Texas-styled blues about Piper’s cowboy fantasies with Franklin on piano. “Paper Bag” is a fun soul styled anthem featuring de Chant’s sax. The rhumba, “Shotgun Wedding”, celebrates courtship and was possibly inspired by Piper’s own recent event. “Eugene” is about a womanizer. The title track “More Guitars Than Friends” is an introspective reflection on her efforts to succeed in the competitive music industry.

Blues covers include “Just A Little Bit” a 1960 hit for Rosco Gordon on Vee Jay Records; “I’m Lost Without You”, also from the early sixties, written by Memphis Slim; and “Cold Pizza and Warm Beer” learned from Saffire, Those Uppity Blues Women.

Piper’s sensual vocals are combined with Kury’s rockin guitar. Piper is difficult to categorize but one thing is clear. Piper is a great entertainer.

Richard Ludmerer