Paul deLay Albums (11)
What The Critics Say
After six albums of blues harmonica playing that defies all the rules, deLay comes to Chicago, hooks up with the Johnny Burgin band, and cuts a nice, relaxed record in the 1950s Chicago style. But that doesn't mean that deLay turned in a bunch of old Little Walter and Muddy Waters tunes from his record collection for this one. Instead, he wrote -- or co-wrote with various bandmembers -- every tune on here, with many of them ("Beautiful Bones," "Oak Street Beach," "All Cried Out") tipping their stylistic hat in the direction of Junior Wells and Buddy Guy's efforts on the classic Hoodoo Man Blues album. Zora Young guests on "Come on Home," and Jimmy Dawkins contributes some nasty, stinging guitar on "El Train" and "What's Coming Next." But as always, deLay's stratospheric explorations on his harp (especially his swinging work with the chromatic) are the big ticket, and tracks like "Brave Woman," the Elmore-styled "Wait," and "Only Me" provide plenty of harmonica fireworks. If this is a side project between albums with his regular working band, then the infusion of new blood and new surroundings combine to make this one of the most accessible albums of his career. ~ Cub Koda, All Music Guide
What The Critics Say
Nice & Strong finds Paul deLay at the top of his form, turning out a set of hard-driving Chicago-style blues. Not only does deLay sound tougher than ever, his songs are simply stunning, displaying a devilish humor and a new vulnerability. It's another winning record from one of the great contemporary blues musicians and harp players of the '90s. ~ Stephen Thomas Erlewine, All Music Guide
What The Critics Say
To sing the blues effectively, one must sing about what they know. Paul DeLay knows what it is like to win and lose love, to be confident one moment and desperate the next, and to get high, suffer from drug abuse, and eventually kick his habit triumphantly. All of these experiences are part of his Evidence CD. DeLay, a fine harmonica player who is joined by his Portland-based sextet (which also includes guitarist Peter Dammann, organist Louis Pain, Dan Fincher on tenor, bassist John Mazzocco, and drummer Mike Klobas), has a highly expressive and rather raw voice. He performs ten colorful originals on Ocean of Tears, the majority of which were written while he was in prison on drug charges. DeLay's lyrics consistently tell memorable stories, and it's for his sincerity, emotional intensity, and insightful words that this CD is most highly recommended to blues and folk collectors. ~ Scott Yanow, All Music Guide
What The Critics Say
Declared the album of the year by the Cascades Blues Association, this was completed just days before deLay's three-year visit to the pen. DeLay wrote most of the songs and there is plenty of first-rate chromatic harp playing here. With Peter Dammann on guitar and Louis Pain on keyboards. ~ Michael Erlewine, All Music Guide
What The Critics Say
All 11 songs written by deLay plus plenty of fine harp playing. With Peter Dammann on guitar and Louis Pain on keyboards. ~ Michael Erlewine, All Music Guide
What The Critics Say
The deLay band's first recording gave birth to Criminal Records. ~ Michael Erlewine, All Music Guide
What The Critics Say
The standout album from the early material, this second deLay album reached #2 on the Italian blues charts. Worth seeking out. ~ Michael Erlewine, All Music Guide
What The Critics Say
Reached #20 on the Living Blues chart. This album was the debut of guitarist Peter Dammann. Includes hornwork by ex-Mayall sax player Chris Mercer. ~ Michael Erlewine, All Music Guide
