All videos courtesy of YouTube
I remain thoroughly inspired by this concept! Grab professional recordings of street musicians and combine in a studio and you have raw, clean talent on display!
Everlasting Arms.
This little piece starts of with Pablo Hopenhayn on a cute violin intro. He has the tune on his headphones and adds his violin piece which is recorded on a mike.
Then the vocals begin with Esther Rose and Luke Winslow King from New Orleans. I see Luke has a rusty steel guitar just like Roberto Luti, a Playing for Change veteran. What they can coax out of those rust-buckets is nothing short of breathtaking!
From Dominica, dummer Darius James brings in the rhythm and the distinctive vocals of Vasti Jackson and the Roots Gospel Voices of Mississippi introduces that typical southern sound. Giuseppi Venezia provides the bass that perfectly marries with the drums.
Washboard Chaz is also a "Playing for Change" veteran. Washboards have been used as a percussion instrument for many years. The Beatles used one in their earlier band called the Quarrymen.
Luciano Damiani on a mandolin adds an Italian flavour to a skiffle tune.
Memories are invoked by the "California Feet Warmers" a blend of New Orleans jazz and ragtime using a brass backing to the melody.
Dr John on keyboards adds a final element of authenticity.....The tune may be old but the talent cannot be denied!
1000 voices in a gentle island song
This was a new project for the "Playing for Change" team. A medley beginning with the gentle voices of Lehua Kalima and Shawn Pimental singing an English song followed by an Hawaiian song. All singers are from from Hawaii including family singing groups and many school choir additions. A longing for an island holiday envelopes me as I am swayed by these gentle melodies.
Honkey Tonk Women
featuring Mermans Masengo from Kinshasa in the Congo and Keb Mo' from New Orleans
and in the background, again, we have the "California Feet Warmers"
If I have a "bucket list" it will have to be a visit to New Orleans, some day before I leave this frail existence, to listen to the musical talent that can be found almost around every corner. I'm not a great party man so I'll avoid the carnival but would just like to pop in to all the musical venues and listen to the jazz and blues until I have had my fill....
I hope these tunes help you have a relaxing day!
Till next time! - Junior