Review: Charlie Musselwhite—One Night in America

Charlie Musselwhite’s got vocals smooth as single barrel bourbon and a harp tone as wide and rich as the Mississippi. He "dabbles" in guitar, not too shabbily, either. He was formed, influenced and molded by his youthful experiences in Memphis. One Night In America reflects that heritage. The material is a diverse bag, not trad blues, and is a collection of songs that Charlie likes. Joined by the guitar prowess of G.E. Smith, Robben Ford and Marty Stuart as well as T-bone Wolk’s bass and Per Hanson’s drumming, Musselwhite does some low down roots explorations. From C&W like the "Cold Grey Light of Dawn" which was written by bluesman Ivory Joe Hunter or Johnny Cash’s "Big River," to Los Lobos’ "One Time One Night," to several self-penned autobiographically influenced pieces, "One Night In America" passes smoothly. The voices of Kelly Willis and Christine Ohlman blend with Charlie’s to fill songs with sweet harmony. Thank you Memphis for making Charlie Musselwhite who he is today and thank you to Mr. Musselwhite for letting us hear him again. Smooth and mild.—Mark Gresser