Jimmy Dawkins - B Phur Real (1995)

A Listener can sometimes get overly analytic in reviewing music, and that can lead one away from the big picture. As with this CD by Jimmy Dawkins, it is better to listen and let the music wash over you, allowing you to feel it and enter the variety of musical "rooms" whose doors are opened for you. "B Phur Real" has Jimmy in bold form, testifying with his blues in vocals and guitar. His instrument, a semi-hollow Gibson ES-355, is once again employed here to deliver the soul/blues according to Jimmy. His tone, choice of notes, and playing quirks bring a unique brand of soul to this music. This can't really be described but has to be felt. The able backing band sounds like a well-oiled unit with especially the drum/bass combo keeping up the necessary platform for Jimmy to build upon. The CD contains eight songs. Jimmy's singing style includes adlibbing lyrics on the spot. No, the songs therefore are not complex, but this style adds to the spontaneous quality of the music. However, Travis Haddix's "Begging Business" is included, and Jimmy gives it his stamp. On this CD, Jimmy brings his brand of serious blues. Serious blues is getting hard to find as years go by. Some of the "blues" from other artists is more rocking or good-time in sound. Is it still the blues? You decide. For me, Jimmy Dawkins' music is the real deal, to use an overworked phrase, and his CD title, "B Phur Real", is a proud indicator of what he has to offer. Play on Jimmy. ~ Blue Ox, Amazon

Here we go again with the off-the-wall spellings…more listenable modern work from the Chicago guitarist, who's found his groove again after quite a few years of less than enthralling releases. ~ Bill Dahl, All Music

Track List

01. Two Timin Lover [5:20]
02. Lonesome Blues [6:06]
03. If It Aint Love [6:17]
04. B Phur Real [8:47]
05. Walk With Me [4:58]
06. Begging Business [3:52]
07. You Got It, Baby [7:24]
08. Can't Hide My Love [5:08]