Brigitte Purdy – Mother Of The Crossroads
Dirtshack Records
9 songs time – 33:18
Los Angeles based singer-songwriter, blues DJ Brigitte Purdy on this her second release, unleashes her powerhouse of a voice to the accompaniment of a sympathetic producer and first-rate band. Her dramatic vocalizations draw the listener in. Producer and guitarist-piano player Dave Osti wrote or co-wrote all the songs with Brigitte. The music pulls from the blues, roots music, R&B and gospel music. Her voice breathes life into the lyrics.
Right from the get-go, her take charge vocals rip into “Sugar Fried Candy”. The dynamics are astounding along with a searing guitar solo from Dave Osti. A snappy drum groove powers “Blue Collar Woman”, again with more of her hearty voice. Electric piano, organ and guitar drive her forceful vocalizations. Backing vocals near song’s end. Obviously, Memphis references in “Memphis Hotline”. “Make it greasy, like my blues”. The mysterious and soulful title song “Mother Of The Crossroads” has a funky bass line. Acoustic guitar, electric guitar and electric slide guitar blend under Brigitte’s dramatic vocal in “Losin Time For Love”. “Slow down this world”.
“Make Love Higher” is an elegant and earnest ballad with majestic electric slide guitar. She commits a super sassy vocal in “Too Full Of You”, a confrontation to her lover, bolstered by forceful slide guitar. Slide guitar and Michael Fell’s harmonica lead the energetic attack of “Come To Mama”. “Rise Like The Water” concludes things on a gospel-tinged note, with textured guitar and Drake Shining’s soaring B3 organ.
A rather short CD, but once again it is about quality over quantity, and this disc overflows with quality music infused with deep feeling. Dave Osti, aside from producing, he plays most of the instruments. That is not to slight Drake Shining’s skills on B3 organ and additional keyboards. From Brigitte’s powerful and engaging vocals to the excellent musicianship and production values, she is truly The Mother of the Crossroads! Everything that comes from Brigitte’s mouth exudes authenticity!
