In a Blue Mood – Ron Weinstock

Watermelon Slim- Review -“Church of the Blues”
NorthernBlues Music, released Jan 24, 2019

This is the 13th album by William P. Homans, better known as Watermelon Slim, dating back to 1973 when his “Merry Airbrakes” recording was celebrated as one of the first anti-Vietnam War albums done by a military veteran. It took him 29 years for his second album, “Big Shoes To Fill,” which established his acclaimed career. Mississippi Fred McDowell is perhaps his biggest influence, and he developed his slide style as well as his gritty, raspy vocals. Watermelon Slim co-produced “Church Of The Blues” with Chris Hardwick, as well as plays harmonica and electric slide guitar. He is backed by his band of John Allouise on bass and Brian Wells on drums. He has guests including guitarists Bob Margolin, Nick Schnebelen, Joe Louis Walker; vocalists Sherman Holmes, John Nemeth; keyboardist Red Young. While the guests may add interest to this recording, it is Slim with his strong playing, vocals, and personality that makes this album so enjoyable.
IN A BLUE MOOD -Ron Weinstock, 7/25/19