Album Description:
The world of blues music has witnessed numerous virtuosos, but few can match the sheer intensity and raw talent of Johnny Winter. With his searing guitar skills, distinctive voice, and unparalleled stage presence, Winter solidified his place as a blues legend. One of his most revered works, the 12" vinyl LP album "Raisin Cain", produced by Steve Paul, stands as a testament to Winter's artistry and enduring influence.
A Fusion of Originals and Blues Classics:
"Raisin Cain" showcases Johnny Winter's ability to blend original compositions with classic blues covers. The album strikes a delicate balance between showcasing Winter's songwriting prowess and paying homage to the genre's roots. Listeners are treated to a tapestry of blues styles, delivered with the passion and finesse that defined Winter's career.
From the haunting "Sweet Little Angel" to the seething "It's My Own Fault", Winter's interpretations of blues classics captivate with their intensity. He infuses these songs with his signature guitar solos, effortlessly capturing the essence of the originals while adding his own unique flair.
Original Songs: A Testament to Winter's Songwriting Talents:
Alongside the blues standards, "Raisin Cain" features Winter's own compositions, which demonstrate his songwriting prowess. From the gritty, foot-stomping opener "The Crawl" to the soulful and introspective "Guess I'll Go Away", Winter's original tracks deliver a diverse range of emotions and showcase his versatility as a musician.
The album also includes the electrifying "Rock and Roll, Hoochie Koo", a standout track that became a career-defining hit for Winter. This infectious anthem perfectly encapsulates his ability to fuse blues with rock elements, captivating audiences worldwide.
The Art of Guitar Mastery:
One of the album's defining characteristics is Johnny Winter's exceptional guitar skills. His virtuosity is on full display throughout "Raisin Cain", as he effortlessly navigates intricate riffs, blazing solos, and soulful melodies. Winter's guitar work serves as a testament to his technical ability and deep understanding of the blues tradition.
Production by Steve Paul:
Steve Paul, renowned for his work with blues musicians, including Johnny Winter's brother, Edgar Winter, served as the producer of "Raisin Cain". Paul's expertise and understanding of the blues genre shine through in the album's production. His collaboration with Winter resulted in a sonically rich and captivating experience, allowing the raw energy and emotion of the performances to take center stage.
The Timelessness of "Raisin Cain":
Decades after its release, "Raisin Cain" remains a cornerstone of Johnny Winter's illustrious discography. The album's enduring appeal lies in its ability to transport listeners into the heart of the blues. Winter's unmatched talent, combined with his deep respect for the genre's traditions, creates an experience that resonates with fans old and new.
Personnel/Band Members and Musicians on: JOHNNY WINTER - Raisin Cain
|
Band-members, Musicians and Performers
- Johnny Winter - Guitar, Vocals
- Jon Paris
- bass, guitar, harmonica
- Bobby Torello - drums
Bobby Torello, a virtuoso drummer, has left an indelible mark on the world of music, particularly through his collaboration with the iconic blues-rock guitarist Johnny Winter.
Read Bobby's story
- Tom Strohman - sax
-
Dan Hartman - piano
Dan Hartman was born on 8 December 1950, in Harrisburg, Pennsylvania, USA. From a young age, he displayed a deep passion for music and began playing various instruments, including the guitar, bass, keyboards, and drums. This diverse musical background would later become a significant factor in shaping his successful career.
Musical Career Beginnings:
In the early 1970s, Dan Hartman gained recognition as a member of the rock band, The Edgar Winter Group. He joined the band as a bassist and backing vocalist, contributing to their critically acclaimed album, "They Only Come Out at Night" (1972). This album featured the band's biggest hit, "Frankenstein", which showcased Hartman's musical versatility and solidified his position in the music industry.
Collaboration with Johnny Winter:
After his stint with The Edgar Winter Group, Hartman began collaborating with blues-rock guitarist Johnny Winter. He worked as a songwriter and producer for Johnny's albums, bringing his expertise to enhance Winter's bluesy sound. One of their notable collaborations was on Johnny Winter's album "White, Hot and Blue" (1978), where Hartman's contributions as a songwriter and musician helped in creating a successful record.
more...
Solo Success:
As a solo artist, Dan Hartman achieved significant success, especially during the late 1970s and early 1980s. In 1978, he released his debut album, "Who Is Dan Hartman", which garnered attention with the hit single "Instant Replay". The song became a dancefloor favorite and climbed the charts, establishing Hartman as a force to be reckoned with in the disco and dance music scene.
In 1984, he released the album "I Can Dream About You", which featured the title track as well as "We Are the Young". Both songs became major hits, with "I Can Dream About You" reaching the top 10 on the Billboard Hot 100 chart. The album's success further solidified Hartman's reputation as a skilled songwriter, vocalist, and producer.
Later Career and Legacy:
Throughout the 1980s and 1990s, Dan Hartman continued to release albums and singles, exploring various musical styles and maintaining a dedicated fanbase. While he didn't replicate the massive success of his earlier hits, he remained a respected artist in the music industry.
Tragically, on 22 March 1994, Dan Hartman passed away at the age of 43 due to a brain tumor. His untimely death was a significant loss to the music community. However, his contributions to music, particularly in the disco and dance genres, continue to be celebrated by fans and fellow musicians alike.
- Dave Still - tambourine
|
Sound Copyright 
