Curtis Salgado: Wiggle Outta This

Primich’s Portland counterpart Curtis Salgado takes a more modernist approach on Wiggle Outta This (Shanachie 9014; 53:37). This contemporary soulman, a charter member of Robert Cray’s band, unleashes sanctified, Otis Redding/O.V. Wright styled vocals on “That’s All a Part of Lovin’ You” and the dramatic ballad “I Want Everyone to Know.” He reserves his harp work for a contempo rendition of J.B. Lenoir’s shuffle “I Feel So Good” and his own grooving “Cookie Dough.” Though Salgado is a vocalist of astounding power and emotional range, Primich easily cuts him on the blues harp. But then, Salgado seems more interested in casting himself as a contemporary soul crooner than a blues purist or archivist. “Sing My Song,” for instance, seems closer to the Artist Formerly Known as Prince than the bluesman formerly known as Sonny Boy Williamson. This slicker, contempo approach will undoubtedly make Salgado more accessible to the widespread pop market, but hardcore blues fans may not grab onto this as easily as they would dig into Primich’s Botheration . Different strokes.

Originally Published July 1, 1999