Review: Various—The Blues Foundation Presents W.C. Handy Awards Nominees Vol. 1

Featuring cuts from the Blues Album of the Year, Blues Song of the Year, Blues Entertainer of the Year, Blues Band of the Year and Best New Artist debut, this disk is full of names. Anson Funderburgh, Sean Costello, Taj Mahal, Son Seals, Corey Harris, Henry Butler, Eddy “The Chief” Clearwater and more have all contributed cuts. The disk explains itself as an “excellent means for the casual Blues fan to discover the artists that Blues “insiders” and aficionados are most excited about.” Beyond that, the cover is worth a bit, too. A big, sweaty, wailing woman is bluesin’ and ‘nuff said. Since so many artists are included, a good snapshot of contemporary blues is provided from R&B, Texas, acoustic Delta and Chicago. The birthplace of electric is represented by Son Seals’ Southside and Eddy Clearwater’s West Side sounds. North Mississippi Hill Country electric, New Orleans bayou conjuring, big voiced women shouters, Detroit soul and down home juking are there, too. As a compilation, it represents the 2001 Handy Award nominations and as such, it is some fine music.—Mark Gresser