Mood Elevator
Ouachita Bottoms | New Orleans | 03/22/2005
(5 out of 5 stars)
"Be forewarned, this CD is a mood-elevator oif the first order! If you are in a low mood or a "bad place" as the shrinks say, keep this CD out of your player, or risk finding yourself tapping your feet and snapping your fingers.
Even the blusier cuts on this beautiful piece of work by Armand St. Martin are infused with a rollicking beat and the irresistable rythm of his boogie-woogie piano playing that, while reminiscent of the maniac from Ferriday, is inexorably linked to St. Martin's New Orleans roots. It may be swingier than it is funky, but the influences of Toussaint, Domino, Rebenack and even Booker are there.
Listening to this CD makes you want to see St. Martin live, as you can hear the great joy of a born entertainer in his big barritone voice. He loves to tell a story with his songs, and you can hear him smiling when you get it; he wants you, the listener, in on the deal, and it works on every song.
A crew of capable players from the west coast (where this disc was recorded) aid and abet the high-spirited piano pumping party that Armand St. Martin throws; it is good ol' New Orleans rock and roll served up "sizzlin'" hot.
Bob Compton"
Tabasco For Your Ears!
M. A. Harper | New Orleans, LA | 05/20/2005
(5 out of 5 stars)
"I'm a New Orleanian and I know HEAT--our weather, hot sauce, and music. A distinctive style of rocking piano has long caused our nightlife to simmer, catching fire from the fingers of native sons like Tuts Washington, Professor Longhair and James Booker. So it is with great pleasure that I find Armand St. Martin now carrying the torch and burning up the ivories. St. Martin not only commits hairraising piano arson, he has a terrific voice as well. As if that weren't enough, he also writes most of his own material. There is nothing this man cannot do, apparently, except fail to astonish. For anybody who loves this city, "Sizzlin'" is a must-buy. And for those of you who have never visited us, just pull up a summer chair in front of your electric fan, open a bottle of Dixie or Abita beer, and put St. Martin's "Sizzlin'" on your CD player. Welcome to Orleans Parish! Prepare to sweat!"
Track Listings (9) - Disc #1