REVIEW: Storyville, Bluest Eyes (November Records)
- Bob Gajarsky
San Diego and Athens are often mentioned as prime contenders for the next "in" city in music. Athens' best is Storyville, and their new CD which is already receiving airplay is Bluest Eyes.
The best description for Storyville's sound is a combination of Corey Glover (Living Colour) and Joe Cocker's vocals mixed with a soulful blues and rock mix. Storyville takes its name from the New Orleans red light district where jazz and prostitution flourished during the early 1900's. The Southern link continues through the musicians who are part of the album; Tommy Shannon, Chris Layton (Stevie Ray Vaughn's Double Trouble, Arc Angels), Stephen Burton (Bonnie Raitt). Lead singer Malford Milligan, who "is" Storyville, was named best male vocalist at the Austin Music Awards. The group was also honored by the AMA as the best new band and delivered one of the most talked about performances at the industry trade show South by Southwest.
The title track, "Bluest Eyes", is inspired by one of Toni Morrison's novels. Don Henley even helps out with background vocals on the track, although they really aren't that noticable; Milligan carries the song all by himself. He seems to do this on the other tracks as well, such as his covers of Peter Gabriel's "Mercy Street" and Sam Cooke's "A Change Is Gonna Come". Rather than letting the music carry the song with the voice being a passive instrument, Milligan uses his voice as the main vehicle for the song.
The basic format for the 13 song disc is driving rock and roll; guitar, keyboard, drums and bass. The only deviation from this is on the final track, "Darkness", which featuresonly Milligan's voice and T.S. Bruton's guitars. This song is handled just like the other 12; flawlessly, leaving the listener wanting to come back for more.
The New York Post has already named the release their CD of the week. The excitement is already beginning about Austin and Storyville will be leading the way. Check out Bluest Eyes to hear what all the buzz is about.
