Together, Joe Filisko and Eric Noden create the rhythmic old-time acoustic blues sounds of the past by combining the Delta’s most beloved instruments, the acoustic six string guitar and the harmonica. This modern day duo capture the blues and roots styles of the 20’s and 30’s through a rowdy, good time feeling, while staying true to the art form. These guys keep the blues alive by giving back to the blues community by teaching their craft in workshops throughout the country.

So let’s go out on the porch, grab a cold drink, sit and watch the sun go down while listening to some good ol’ foot stomping blues!

BAY RUM BLUES: Written in 1933 by Gwen Foster. This is a story of the drinking crowd in Gastonia, NC during prohibition gathering at the local dime store to purchase Bay Rum “cologne.” It takes both Joe and Eric to replicate what Gwen was able to do with his guitar, racked harmonica and vocals.

CANNED HEAT BLUES: Written by Tommy Johnson and recorded in 1928. A story of drinking what we know today as “Sterno” during prohibition. Joe plays his harmonica with a small tin can for extra resonance.

WHOOPIN’ THE BLUES: Sonny Terry & Brownie McGee were one of the original blues duos. Sonny is probably the most influential rhythm harmonica player with his distinct percussive sounds while occasionally throwing in a few field hollers and whoops! Legend has it, Sonny played his harmonica upside down. Listening to Joe, you would swear Sonny was on the porch with you!

KINDHEARTED WOMAN: This was the first song Robert Johnson recorded in 1936.
Johnson played this with a driving thumb technique typical of Delta players. Eric follows the original song for most of the tune. Joe adds an amplified harmonica to the mix, even though the blues harp was not a part of Johnson’s repertoire.

TRUCKIN’ MY BLUES AWAY: Recorded in 1937 by John Lee “Sonny Boy” Williamson. Sonny used a tongue block technique to get his thick, full-bodied rhythms which dominated the Delta. Joe is one of the masters of this technique.

I HEARD THE ANGELS SINGING: made popular by Rev. Gary Davis in the late 1930’s. With his hard to replicate finger-picking and unique chord changes, the Reverend established himself as a guitar master. Joe adds a high pitch harmonica to contrast this gospel song.

MOUNTAIN DEW: Written by Bascom Lansford, but was made popular by North Carolina harmonica player, Walter “Red” Parham. This is a tale of whiskey stills in the Appalachian Mountains. Joe and Eric blend their rhythms in this feel good foot- stomper….Do the Dew!

I rate this CD a 4 on the STLBluesometer.