“Distant Star,” Mary Everhart
“Distant Star,” Mary Everhart, Redbird, 2002
From its outward appearance this CD is from a New Age singer/songwriter, judging from its title and a picture of a sunset on the cover. Fortunately, Mary Everhart is really a blues singer backed by a band. The first cut, “Second Hand,” is a boogie shuffle that sets the pace. The title of the second song, “Butt Kickin’ Mary,” is a better indication of what this CD is about, with its backup that includes barrelhouse piano.
“Distant Star” does have a bit of a singer/songwriter feel. Everhart wrote all of the words and music. And most of the songs are based on Everhart’s simple rhythm guitar work.
This is a blues CD, however, despite some unusual titles like “Popcorn Pimp.” Everhart has the strong, growly voice of a blues mama. Her band of bass, drums, and lead guitar play the blues, with plenty of bluesy leads by Jon Bailey that also have a hint of Southern rock.
There is nothing here that blues fans have not heard before, and the production might have done a better job of blending Everhart with her band and guest musicians. Still, the feeling in Everhart’s voice makes this CD a solid entry in the field.
Mary Everhart's site
- Dave Howell
(This article first appeared in the SouthBound Beat music site.)
From its outward appearance this CD is from a New Age singer/songwriter, judging from its title and a picture of a sunset on the cover. Fortunately, Mary Everhart is really a blues singer backed by a band. The first cut, “Second Hand,” is a boogie shuffle that sets the pace. The title of the second song, “Butt Kickin’ Mary,” is a better indication of what this CD is about, with its backup that includes barrelhouse piano.
“Distant Star” does have a bit of a singer/songwriter feel. Everhart wrote all of the words and music. And most of the songs are based on Everhart’s simple rhythm guitar work.
This is a blues CD, however, despite some unusual titles like “Popcorn Pimp.” Everhart has the strong, growly voice of a blues mama. Her band of bass, drums, and lead guitar play the blues, with plenty of bluesy leads by Jon Bailey that also have a hint of Southern rock.
There is nothing here that blues fans have not heard before, and the production might have done a better job of blending Everhart with her band and guest musicians. Still, the feeling in Everhart’s voice makes this CD a solid entry in the field.
Mary Everhart's site
- Dave Howell
(This article first appeared in the SouthBound Beat music site.)