Bluebyrds - Saw The Light (1998) [CD Rip]

Harmonica player "Crazy" Chris Kramer is no stranger to the German blues scene. Along with Christoph "Slidin" John on guitar, the top instrumentalist has been on the road as a blues duo for years under the name Bluebyrds. The two artists had concerts recorded in 1999 and 2000, the essence of which is documented on "Live - Made in Germany". Instrumentally, it is important to note that Kramer and John are experts in their field. "Crazy" Chris Kramer blows a hot harp and can be more reserved if necessary. Of course, the musician sometimes weaves too many show effects and gimmicks into his playing. Christoph "Slidin" John acts less show-oriented. But he can also really grab the strings. Especially his slide guitar skills are impressive. As a vocalist, however, he does not fare as well as his partner with his rather expressionless voice. Kramer's organ is simply dirtier, bluesy, which is particularly evident in the bluesy ballad "Don't wish I was dead". The setlist consists mostly of original compositions by the two musicians. The cover versions include Rory Gallagher's Ghost Blues. In addition to the aforementioned "Don't wish I was dead", the hot "Song for Ana" with electric slide guitar and the two boogies "Hold on" and "I can't let my baby go" are the disc's highlights. The Bluebyrds could have left the "Tequila" in the archive. The short bonus track "Tristan's song", on which John's Filius can be heard, would have been in good hands there. Finally, on the almost nine-minute "Have you seen my baby" it becomes clear that the blues duo sometimes has limitations. Trying to maintain the suspense over this period of time, Kramer and John become tiresome over time. But - one has to give the two bluesers credit for this - their type of music simply doesn't develop the charm and atmosphere on recordings that it is able to exude in a small club. ~birddog