DAVE KEYES - Covered in Blue
DKRecords 1006 – USA 2001

Best 2001 unsigned band, singer and keyboards wizard Dave Keyes found no other way to record than setting up his own records company! And, after a few songs of his « Covered in blue » you may start wondering what on hell are all those important managers in the music business doing than smoking cigars and lurking secretaries’ legs. Probably nothing! Keyes kicks off with a terrifically rollin’ « Pass it on down », where he and his band sets the tone: soulful singing, artful piano and B-3 work and a steady backing. Not a real primadonna, Keyes also leaves room for his talented friends, especially the almost boppin’ horn section and Jeff Pevar on guitar. Music varies from the southern soul-blues approach of the title track and of «Lay down sweet Mary », the rock’n’roll oriented « Come with me baby » to the zydeco of « Pookie po po » and the old style piano blues of « Signed with heartache ». The remaining tracks follow the same gutsy patterns. Adam Gussow of Satan and Adam appears on harp in a cameo « Mystery Train ».
Keyes is another brick in the wall facing angry ranks of xeroxed guitar players: his efforts, including songwriting, must be commended. This is an outstanding album from a more than promising musician.

Luca Lupoli