Big River Blues

"This collection of tunes is more along the lines of country blues - a more basic sound than the typical blues, and truly a simple - straightforward approach with Sommers doing both guitar and vocals (and some harp) alone. Particular favorites on the CD, both written by Sommers, are First Things First (dedicated to Duane Allman - which can serve as a clue to style), and Sunset On Big River. This set of songs let you know Sommers really likes where he is, both geographically and philosophically - and like the Big River - You Got To Move." -- by R.C EMusic.com Steve


"This is entertaining at times. He can play fine, but I don't appreciate the grunting style. He's found his niche.and It's working!" -- Tom (fredsmom@earthlink.net) Phoenix, AZ. - 3/25/00


"I live in North Jackson, Misissippi, and I hear alot of this type of music, white, black, whatever. Dusty is totally true to the Music. This man is singing and playing the only way he can, the Deep Blues. His playing live is awesome! I've talked with him many times, and he sounds just like he sings: sexy. And being a nice Southern Lady, that boy can put his shoes under my bed anytime! He's here in the Delta! Buy his CD and enjoy!" -- Michelle (MSStone288@aol.com) North Jackson, Miss. - 5/15/00


"Reports of the death of old-style Delta blues have been greatly exaggerated. On Big River Blues, J. Dustin Sommers, accompanied solely by a guitar, digs deep into the Delta and comes up with Honeyboy Edwards ("Worried Man Blues"), Skip James ("I'm So Glad"), Charley Patton (a rollicking "Moon Goin' Down"), Mississippi Fred McDowell ("You Got to Move"), and Blind Lemon Jefferson ("One Kind Favor"). Sommers can write this stuff as well as play it; check out the gorgeous slide work on "First Things First," the slow and sweet "Sunset on Big River," the uptempo (and far too brief) "Duolian in 'D'," and others. There's an intimacy to this music that contemporary blues can't match, nor should it try. It's a peaceful, pleasant surprise, like a river at sunset, and should be enjoyed in equal measure." -- Genevieve Williams, on Amazon.Com


"Clocking in at less than two and a half minutes, this unassuming slide guitar instrumental (First Things First) is a little gem that just might sneak up on you -- not bad for a piece that could practically fit on your answering machine." -- Dave Reitzes, July 2000


"Your CD 'Big River Blues' has entered on our Blues/Folk charts at number 5!!! Cheers!!!" -- Peggy Shanks,
Program Director,CFRC-FM 101.9, Toronto, Canada


"J. Dustin Sommers plays with Passion and Imagination, the Hauntingly Beautiful results speak for themselves." -- Adam Rodell, Rodell Records, Hollywood, CA

Added:  Saturday, August 02, 2003
Reviewer:  Lana
Score:
hits: 3280