Search - Jon Tiven :: Blue Guru

Good fusion of blues, pop, and R&B, well sung and played.

02/16/1999

(5 out of 5 stars)

"This album is a meeting ground of strong songwriting, playing, and singing. Jon Tiven's production is crisp and spare allowing all to be heard. He has assembled an interesting array of stellar guests, including Arthur Alexander, John Waite, Eddie Hinton, Muzz Skillings, Spooner Oldham, and Gary U.S. Bonds. Mostly co- written by Jon and Sally Tiven with various other writers (including Don Covay!) the songs are catchy and well structured. The drums of Todd Snare add a sexy pulse to the music. Jon Tiven and his wife Sally, on guitar and bass respectively, create a simple and confident funky sound like a modern Cropper and Dunn. Alan Merrill's lead vocals are emotive, passionate and strong (Merrill had hits as the singer of the Arrows in the 70's) and a standout is his duet with the late Arthur Alexander on "Let's Think About It". For those who don't know he was the singer of the original "I Love Rock 'N Roll" in 1975 (which he also wrote) with the Arrows. Standout tracks are "He Don't Know", "Second Hand Paradise", and "Better Him Than Me".This is a must for those looking for an alternative to the usual corporate rock stuff."