Levon Helm Band: Little Sammy Davis (vocals, harmonica); Fred Scribner (guitar); Mike Merritt (bass guitar); Levon Helm (drums). Recording information: Levon Helm Studio, Woodstock, NY (2004). MIDNIGHT RAMBLE MUSIC SESSION VOL. 1, released in 2006, finds Levon Helm and his band looking back to tradition by recording a series of loose, roots-oriented jam sessions at Helm's home in Woodstock, NY (similar to the way Bob Dylan recorded his famous BASEMENT TAPES with the Band, featuring Helm on drums). Helm is still plying a potent, appealing brand of Americana, drawing on country, rock, funk, folk, and the blues in equal measures, and sounding more assured than ever as a drummer and a vocalist (which is particularly impressive given his recent bout with throat cancer). Helm's bandmates are no slouches either, and guest appearances by the likes of Dr. John boost an already high caliber of musicianship. This is feel-good music with just enough of a laid-back vibe to keep it mellow, and just enough muscle to give it punch. And that the sessions are recorded live and are open to the public makes it that much more of a cool scene.
Sad Hours Oh Baby I'm Ready Blow, Wind, Blow Blues With A Feeling New Scratch My Back, The I Ain't Lyin' I'm Crazy About You Baby Boom Boom, Out Go The Lights Forty Days & Forty Nights Going Down To Main Street Everything Gonna Be Alright / Wrapped Up In Love Again California Blues