Search - Chico Banks :: Candy Lickin' Man

A rising chicago blues star

07/11/1998

(4 out of 5 stars)

"If your a blues purist, chances are you won't enjoy the debut CD by Chicago blues artist, Chico Banks. However, if your a fan of all styles of blues like myself, "Candy Lickin' Man" is money well spent. Banks clearly demonstrates influences from the likes of Albert King, Otis Rush, as well as the artist formerly known as Prince on this CD. Although his high pitched voice may turn off some blues fans who are used to a raspy blues vocalist, Banks posesses all of the traits necessary to be a blues superstar in the 90's: guitar work, songwriting, personality, and a touch of swagger. In the title song, Banks' boasts that "no other man can compare to me." Considering that Banks is easy on the eyes as well as talented, one can picture many screaming women during this tune. His remake of the Albert King classic "Angel of Mercy" is well done, while the highlight of the CD is a smokin' duet with Mavis Staples on "It must be love." Banks shows some versatility as well when he slows things down on "Groove Me," a perfect slow dance song. Chico Banks is a multi-talented bluesman who should continue to satisfy fans for years to come."

Hot New Blues Musician To Track

P Singer, Publisher BluesWebChicago | Chicago, IL | 08/09/2002

(4 out of 5 stars)

"I first saw Chico Banks in 2000 at a Chicago Blues Club. The moment I walked in, I realized I had made a discovery. Here was this guy on stage laying out licks that had mezmerized the audience and me too, as I staggered to quickly find a seat.I go to see him live as often as I can, each time he astounds me anew with smokin', exciting and riveting blues from his masterful guitar playing and soulful artistry. This album is the only way I can recapture a live experience anytime I want."

Mr. JIMI would be most proud

little wing/ cadlacath/ | Chicago, thank you very much! | 02/19/2002

(5 out of 5 stars)

"Chico Banks has suceeded in capturing his intense, hypnotic, gifted blues/rock guitar onto this CD. He has that voice not unlike Smokey Robinson, which clearly adds to the exquisite interpretation of the blues at their finest. Mr. Banks has all the right stuff to step up and break thru the wall that keeps blues from mainstream music on the radio and everywhere else. We need great music like this to get back to the reasons we love music. This CD takes us with a master to an inspired place we all appreciate, once we arrive. Thanks, Mr. Banks."