Mudcat and the Atlanta Horns: While You Were Away
30 Miles Up
Veteran bluesman and one of Atlanta’s most articulate spokespeople for roots music history, Danny Dudeck, aka Mudcat, adds soul man to his résumé. Trumpet and sax join longtime sideman Lil’ Joe Burton’s trombone for a brassy version of the singer/guitarist’s bluesy vocabulary. The swampy choogle coursing through Mudcat’s previous material remains alive and well in “The Devil is Real,” leaving room for Mudcat’s slashing slide. His exuberant voice is energized on the animated title track as he testifies with the authenticity and dedication that such spirited music inspires. Forever the homeboy, While You Were Away, Mudcat’s 12th album, was recorded to two-inch analog tape, which accounts for the warm vibe, and yields a perfect combination of his stomping live and somewhat reserved studio approach. ★★★★☆