Making Music

Here are some capsule reviews of the latest CDs released by local bands or groups that frequently play in the area.

Roy Gaines, “Bluesman for Life” (RSP Records)

Gaines is yet another Texas-born guitar player, and he can play the blues as well as any of them. The title tune is almost a resume of Gaines’ career to date. When he does the Hurtin’ Bluesman Thing, he can’t be touched, especially on such tunes as “You Went Back on Your Word” and “You’re Gonna Wish I Had Stayed.” An instrumental, “BWR,” shreds; and Gaines is ably assisted by the likes of Valley favorite John Marx on guitar. The two horn guys also wail, making this one of the great local blues albums so far this year.

GRADE: A

*

Ironman Mike Curtis, “Doin’ It All by Myself” (USA Music Group)

Ironman is almost an understatement when describing Curtis, who claims to know 10,000 songs. A liner note eliminates most questions: “All instruments played by Mike Curtis (at the same time).” Not only does he sing and play guitar and harmonica, Curtis also plays the bass with his feet, while wearing shoes, no less. He does more covers than originals, but he can definitely get that boogie-woogie rockin’ blues groove going. Curtis is funny, too. “Cocaine” becomes “Rogaine,” (“Don’t be a flop, you can grow a mop with Rogaine . . . “). Curtis plays all over the place, probably because it’s easy to move a one-man band.

GRADE: A-

*

Burning Spear, “Living Dub Vol. 3” (Rounder)

It’s just what the doctor ordered for all those swirling Phish Heads and Deadheads who will be at this gig: the one-beat, one-song, one-week style of reggae. Winston Rodney (the Spear himself) should also find an appreciative audience for his message of universal brotherhood.

GRADE: B

Next gig: Aug. 29 at Oasis Park in Canyon Country.

*

Pat Hennessey, “Triple Seven (Icebone Records)

This Laguna Beach-based guitarist plays blues about as good as it gets. Hennessey plays the Valley occasionally, but usually hangs close to 714 country, where he also teaches guitar. This CD should help attract lots of new students. Hennessey is proficient in about every style of blues, especially the incendiary guitar-god stuff.

GRADE: A--

*

W.C. Clark, “Lover’s Plea” (Black Top)

Super-smooth vocals and a hot band make Clark one of the best touring bluesmen. Almost as rare as a Californian from California, Clark is a Texan from Texas, born in Austin in 1939. By his early 20s, Clark was playing with all the hot blues guys, including Joe Tex, and later befriended a young Stevie Ray Vaughan.

GRADE: A-

Next gig: Aug. 26 at Cozy’s in Sherman Oaks.

*

Dakota Moon, “Dakota Moon” (Elektra)

Four singers offer heavenly harmonies all over this youthful band’s debut disc. Touring with Tina Turner even before they had released a single, Dakota Moon has had an amazing run of good luck since meeting at a recording session a few years ago. This should please anyone who enjoys slick, romantic ballads and great vocals.

GRADE: B+

Next gig: Aug. 28 at B.B. King’s in Universal City.