Little Charlie & The Nightcats
Nine Lives
Alligator ALCD 4902
Little Charlie and the Nighcats should need no introduction to the
readers of this magazine. Combining top notch musicianship, a relentless approach to
touring and releasing a steady stream of consistent albums on the Alligator label, Little
Charlie and the Nightcats have gotten their respect the old fashioned way - they earned
it. The band is fronted by singer / songwriter / harp player Rick Estrin who writes often
humorous songs and blows a mean harp. Although not the strongest vocalist, he has learned
to write songs that are well suited to his vocal style and this trait has given the band
their own identity along with Little Charlie Baty's awesome guitar work.
The disc leads off with "Keep Your Big Mouth Shut" a humorous
Estrin tune that comes off a little flat vocally. The band picks up some steam on the
following number "Handle With Care" a jazzy swing number featuring Estrin's
chromatic harp. "So Good" has a laid back Jimmy Reed feel to it. "Got To
Have A Job" is a great Estrin tune about his preference for well employed women.
"Tag (You're It)" is an instrumental number from Baty which showcases his jazzy,
Tiny Grimes and Charlie Christian influenced guitar chops well. "Quittin' Time"
and "Sugar Daddy Sweet" are more traditional sounding blues numbers. New drummer
J. Hansen gets a turn behind the mic on his self penned "Deep Pockets".
"Wall to Wall" is a sharp instrumental with wicked tone from Estrin's harp and
some great backing from Baty. The disc closes with a muscular Baty instrumental "Slap
Happy" that has a 50's rock feel to it.
Nine Lives is another solid entry to the discography of Little Charlie
& The Nightcats. If you are a fan of the band you will enjoy this disc. Highly
recommended.
- Barry Gober -
Southwest Blues CD Review - June 2005
Current Reviews - 2005 Reviews - available at our store
