Sugar Blue

Voyage

MC Records

James Whiting aka Sugar Blue was raised in Harlem, NY. His mother was a singer and dancer at the Appollo Theater. Blue’s aunt gifted him with his first harmonica and he wailed along with Bob Dylan and Stevie Wonder songs. He was further influenced by Jazz greats Dexter Gordon and Lester Young. In 1975 Blue played with the legendary Roosevelt Sykes. Blue is best known however for playing the harmonica on the Rolling Stones 1978 album “Some Girls” which contained the single “Miss You”. In 2007 Blue released his tenth album “Code Blue” on his own Beeble music label. He followed up with 2010’s “Threshold” and 2012’s “Raw Sugar Live”.

Scheduled to be released later this month; Blue dedicates this album to his late friend and drummer James Knowles whom appeared on every Sugar Blue album since 1994. The band on this recording includes Blue, harp and vocals; Rico McFarland, guitar; Damiano Della Torre, keyboards; Ilaria Lantieri, Bill Dickens, Johnny B. Gayden or Joewaun Scott, bass; and Brady Williams or Michael Weatherspoon, drums.

Ten of the twelve songs were co-written by Blue. Blue’s best songs are autobiographical. “On My Way” was co-written by him and his wife Lantieri. It is one of the most beautiful songs he has ever recorded and with a fabulous harp solo. “One” was co-written with Blue’s long time friend and guitarist Rico McFarland. This time the harp solo is a bit more airy and spacious.

“Sugar Blue Boogie” is a jazzy instrumental written for Blue by guitarist McFarland, bassist Lantieri and drummer Brady Williams.

“New York City” is an autobiographical rag co-written with finger picking guitarist Max De Bernardi. The song is a reflection on those who have influenced Blue.

“12 Steps” is about redemption and Blue’s recovery from his addiction. It is a thank you to all who have helped him along the way. The background singers are Curtis Lindsey, Brandon Love, Tina Love, and Michelle Lindsay. This song is funkin’ unbelievable !

“Love is Everywhere” was co-written with keyboardist Della Torre. The song features a reggae beat and ends with sounds from Blue and Lantieri’s baby.

“Mercedes Blues” was co-written with Lantieri who can be heard playing bass. Special guest Eddie Shaw plays sax while C.J. Tucker sits in on the drums. “Sunshine” has a bossa nova beat and was co-written with guitarist Harry Hmura who guests on the track. “Cyber Blues” is another song co-written with Lantieri who provides the sound effects.

“Mary Ann” is from Ray Charles. Williams provides the New Orleans beat with nice keyboard work from Della Torre.

“Life On The Run” and “Time” were both co-written with Della Torre. The former is a vocal duet between Blue and guest Maya Azucena. The later rocks from start to finish.

This is the most positive musical statement we have ever heard from Sugar Blue and highly recommended listening. Blue states “music is a vehicle that takes us on a voyage through time and space…to power the engines…of our daily lives…come sail with us…life is a journey not a race. Welcome aboard and…Bon Voyage”!

Richard Ludmerer