What do you call a groupie that hangs around a Band and annoys the lead singer?

The Harmonica player!

Sorry... could not resist ;> ...

Welcome....yer Harp playin' is maaa-velous!

I've been listening to Paolo's new songs quite a bit and lately Fraser Speirs has particularly caught my attention. I've admired his harmonica playing ever since I first heard him at the Telluride Bluegrass Festival. He certainly has a great talent. I've especially liked his playing on "Jump" (Or "Mellow Down Easy") and "Sleepwalking." But there are several of Paolo's songs he's great on.

Paolo said in the tsr.ch radio interview at Montreux that he thought Fraser
played as well as Sonny Boy Williamson. And he seemed to be excited about how well they meshed musically. He's also spoke highly of him again today in the new Daily Record article (July 30, 2008).

Here are a few links to more info on Fraser. He definitely has an impressive background.

Wikipedia: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Fraser_Speirs

YouTube Video: http://youtube.com/watch?v=iZ7xkyUOe7U

Here you can listen to a song sample of Fraser's work with another artist:

http://www.allcelticmusic.com/music/f65c6cae-f86e-102a-.../Lights+Back+On.html

Apparently, he's also worked to some degree with Van Morrison, James Taylor and Al Green! (From Wikipedia)

Loving your work, Fraser!

This message has been edited. Last edited by: OneWorldt,

I know that it has been mentioned that some didn't care too much for the harmonica on the stage now, but I have to tell you, I'm loving it. It definitely adds a lot of depth to Paolo's old stuff too.

I think my favorite is on Alloway Grove. I love the sound in the distance like a train that has been added with it. I always loved Alloway Grove, but, now, there is a feeling much deeper now ...... Great stuff I love the new additions. Thanks One Worldt... when I get a chance I'll check out the links....

K@

Your welcome, Kat.

Fraser is obviously a gifted musician and deserves to be recognized. I just wanted to send a little love his way. I get so much pleasure from listening to him play with Paolo and all of the guys. Can't wait to hear more from him!

Oh, if anyone wants to look up Sonny Boy Williamson, just to see what Paolo's referring to... It can be confusing... There were two of them!

Here is a two-part documentary on the original Sonny Boy Williamson:

Part 1: http://youtube.com/watch?v=l_PlMhhTZBk
Part 2: http://youtube.com/watch?v=F5IvJu5oPDc&feature=related

I'm assuming that Paolo was referring to the original, but I don't know for sure. Maybe he'll talk about it sometime in an interview.

Wow...Fraser was great!
What fantastic Harp playin...they should turn his sound up a little more and really let him wail!
Very talented!

quote:

Originally posted by KIMPY:
Wow...Fraser was great!
What fantastic Harp playin...they should turn his sound up a little more and really let him wail!
Very talented!

Paolo called him a legend! He is great. I love him on "Mellow Down Easy" especially. He's actually quite excellent on most/all of the songs. I think he was a great addition to the band!

After meeting the new 'Boys'...I must say Fraser has perfect manners and is a real gentleman.....we'll HAVE to do something about that!....LOL!

quote:

Originally posted by KIMPY:
After meeting the new 'Boys'...I must say Fraser has perfect manners and is a real gentleman.....we'll HAVE to do something about that!....LOL!

I like your thinking