Elvin Bishop - 'Raisin' Hell Revue' Review

Since way back in the early 1960's Elvin Bishop's name has been associated with playing great music and his latest release, 'Raisin' Hell Revue', keeps that musical magic alive and well.

The album was recorded live in the party atmosphere of the 2010 Legendary Rhythm & Blues Cruise. For this project Bishop brought on board some of his well known all-star musician friends (Finis Tasby, Chris (Kid) Andersen, John Németh, and Terry Hanck).

As with most of Bishop's music you'll find a fusion of blues, soul, rock, country and even Zydeco flavors in the songs that make up, 'Raisin' Hell Revue.' The songs are a collection of both covers of Bishop's own songs along with classic tracks from other artist.

Things gets rolling fast on the album with the, 'I dare you not to tap your foot' upbeat Zydeco song, "Calling All Cows." This guitar and accordion filled track sets the mood for all of the fun music that waits ahead for the listener.

Next up is the blues track, "Whole Lotta Love," featuring lead vocals from Finis Tasby along with guitar solos from Bishop and Chris (Kid) Andersen. "Fooled Around and Fell in Love", is next up. This song is probably one of Bishop's best known, with it scoring as a Top 10 radio hit in the '70s. John Németh does a nice job of handling the lead vocals on it.

"What the Hell is Going On," revolves around all of the unnecessary violence and tragedy that continues to grow each year in our culture. Next up is the R&B song "The Night Time is the Right Time" that was first recorded by Nappy Brown in 1957. The song has also hit the chart with versions by, Ray Charles, Rufus and Carla, and James Brown. The song features the shared lead vocals of John Németh and the soulful tones of Lisa Leu Anderson.

Next up is the Jimmy Reed inspired blues track, "Down in Virginia." The song features the harmonica talents of John Németh. It's followed by the rock edged guitar and drum rich track, "Rock My Soul."

The next two tracks are, the Doo-wop sounding,"Cryin' Fool", and mellow blues track, "River's Invitation." Both songs feature deep rich vocals along with nice sax parts by Terry Hanckis.

"Dyin' Flu" starts with Bishop talking with the audience about the swine flu, then turns into a fond story that he relates to his old time blues guitar player friend Albert Collins. He tells a political incorrect story about riding around in the car with Collins between gigs drinking. Bishop tells the story in a way that only he could get away with. Bishop also talks about how Collins use to make extra money by shooting dice with other bands, winning the money that they had just earned from playing gigs.

Next up is the love gone bad song, "Tore Up Over You," featuring lead vocals from John Németh.

'Raisin' Hell Revue' ends strong with the two soulful blues track, "It Hurts Me Too," & the "Bye Bye Baby" that features guitar solos from both Chris (Kid) Andersen and Elvin Bishop along with a lively piano part from Steve Willis. The song ends strong with some nice audience singing participation.

Elvin Bishop and his music are true American treasures and 'Raisin' Hell Revue' adds another well deserved notch to his musical belt.

http://www.elvinbishopmusic.com