Teresa James & The Rhythm Tramps Come On Home (CD)

(Jesi-Lu Records) 12 tracks, digipack

Veteran blues artist Teresa James and the Rhythm Tramps have been around for a while and their bonafide, makes that clear. The group has been a favorite on Delbert McClinton's Sandy Beaches Blues Cruise for the past twelve years.

Teresa James has not only sung for television and musical soundtracks, including Disney's "Holes," but has also performed live with such classics as Eric Burdon, Randy Newman, Levon Helm, Marcia Ball, Tommy Castro and others.

Over the years, the Rhythm Tramps have counted dozens of musicians among their former members. The current lineup includes Terry Wilson (bass and vocals), Billy Watts (guitar and vocals), Herman Matthew (drums and percussion), Lee Thornburg (trumpet and flugelhorn) and Don Dziubla (saxophones, guitar and keyboards). The rich vocal and instrumental sounds emanating from the band provide an enjoyable listening experience.

The track, which covers the blues boogie hit "I Like It Like That" by the "5" Royales, is accompanied by great keyboard coloring by James and is a favorite. "Bonafide", the title track, shows the clean side of Teresa's vocal range, while wah-wah and harmonies work well together in "Hollywood Way". All but two of the 13 tracks are originals: "I Like It Like That" and "Have a Little Faith", written by John Hiatt.