Here’s an album that cuts to the marrow of New Orleans’ soul. Pianist Davell Crawford strides right with his two fisted swing on a Baker’s Dozen outings culled over 15 years. You get some high stepping originals hat boogie eight to the bar like “Song For James” and the relaxed “Booker Days” as well as traditional material like “Nobody Knows When You’re down And Out” that is spacious and glowing.
Crawford has an authoritative hue to his touch, with the fingers rolling on “Morning Star” and a slow left hand to pulse the bass line on “Make Me A Pallet On The Floor.” You get some funky vocals as well on “Walkin’ By Myself” and Carol Fran joins in on a parlor mooded “Fine Brown Frame” that is filled with indigo moods. The voices sound true to the mood, with “Please Send Me Someone To Love” coming out like a dying plea; this guy’s got gumbo in his veins!
Basin Street Records