Album Notes

Choo Choo Charlie Williams has followed up the wonderful album he did with Red Jones with a new cd with his band the Spitfires, Harpin' My Life Away. This set focuses more on Charlie's amplified harp work and his vocals. Charlie sings in an attractive, unforced manner. Most of the songs are originals and he has a way of matching his lyrics with his melodies. While much of this is blues based, he mixes in some cajun and zydeco sounds with guest appearance from Louisiana’s own Geno Delafose on Jambalaya and Why Don't You (Let me Love You Honey). He adds touches to prevent the boogies and shuffles from sounding trite. The use of the horns gives a nice coloring to the opening shuffle, Take it Easy, while his harp and Dave Fairall's tenor sax create an interesting musical blend on the swamp-pop styled Since the Day You Went Away. Choo Choo's Boogie is a nice harp romp, while the closing Slippin' Away (Song for Klara) is a nice jazzy tune with fine chromatic playing. Harpin' My Life Away is a record that is varied, entertaining and full of heartfelt music. Ron Weinstock, Washington DC Blues Calendar

His CD Harpin’ My Life Away features 9 original songs and includes outstanding support on piano from Daryl Davis (www.daryldavis.com), alumnus of Chuck Berry's band, Tom Lepson (www.tommylepsonband.com), Danny Gatton, Jimmy Thackery and Nils Lofgren alumnus on Hammond B-3 Organ, and Louisiana's own Geno Delafose on accordion. "That's Fantastic, What a great recording. Everybody is on this thing, I swear. Sounds great. " Damian Einstein, WRNR, Washington DC area legendary DJ