Ben Levin Still Here (CD)

(VizzTone) 12 tracks, digisleeve.
Ben Levin, 21, brings vintage style with youthful fire to his piano, vocals and songwriting. The songs written by Ben and his father, guitarist Aron Levin, and the well-chosen covers reflect the music and sound of Cincinnati's historic King Records and what they hold dear today.

Ben's piano influences are New Orleans greats like Professor Longhair, Fats Domino and Smiley Lewis. From Chicago blues, he mixes Otis Spann, Pinetop Perkins and Henry Gray, as well as the relentless drive of Cincinnati's Big Joe Duskin. Ben's father, Aron Levin, contributes deep songwriting and guitar playing as only family can.

His tone, phrasing and ability to master styles with with clever originality make for a seamless musical and genetic collaboration. The original songs are organic and homegrown.

The stories come from Ben and Aron's lives. Their blues, perspective and philosophy is brilliantly matched with their danceable, upbeat songs.