"Philadelphia" Jerry Ricks
DEEP IN THE WELL
R2636
visit Jerry's website
rare but available on amazon
This disc is so smooth and easy that you almost wouldn't quite notice it because it doesn't blare out at you, but at the same time it stands out at you with its quiet, elegant simplicity, and fantastic craftsmanship. This is his music as played by this now 'elder' statesman of the acoustic blues. It is the music he learned from booking the acts at Philadelphia's famed Second Fret coffeehouse from 1960 to 1966. He booked the acts he wanted to hear and learn from, and he had the sense to seize the opportunity and learn his craft well. Yes, you can hear here and the influences of Lonnie Johnson, Reverend Gary Davis, Brownie McGhee, and maybe some of Jimmy Smith, but all distilled through the thoughts of a man who was an acute observer and listener, and knew how to put his lessons to use. His songs are the praise, thanks and his tribute to all those who came before him, will come after him, and have had the courage to live life. The songs are well crafted little gems that reflect his widely traveled world views on life as it is lived by the people it is about. Don't miss this one it is just too fine to get away.
Songs, Times and Writers
1. JAMES ALLEY BLUES - 6:01 Richard Brown
2. NO PLACE FOR ME - 7:02 - Jerry Ricks
3. DOWN IN LUCK - 3:49 Jerry Ricks
4. EMPTY BOTTLE BLUES - 6:28 - Jerry Ricks
5. CHANGE YOUR WAYS - 6:19 - Jerry Ricks
6. BORN WITH THE BLUES - 4:11 - Brownie McGhee
7. NEW PALLET ON THE FLOOR - 5:06 - Trad. arr. Jerry Ricks
8. WHEN A MAN GETS IN TROUBLE - 4:06 Jerry Ricks
9. NEW AVALON - 4:16 - John Hurt
10. AIN'T AFRAID OF THESE BLUES - 3:19 Jerry Ricks
11. GARY DAVIS MEDLEY - 2:19
SALLY WHERE'D YOU GET YOUR LIQUOR FROM : Gary Davis
HESITATION BLUES - Trad. arr., Gary Davis
12. TROUBLES - 4:09 Jerry Ricks
13. TROUBLED, LORD - 1: 57 - Jerry Ricks
14. SWING LOW SWEET CHARIOT - 2:36 - Trad. arr. Jerry Ricks
Musicians
Jerry Ricks - Vocals and Martin D-76 guitar
Produced by "Philadelphia" Jerry Ricks and Jim O'Neal