Artist: Fenton Robinson Album: I Hear Some Blues Downstairs

Year: 1991
Duration: 0:0-1

I Hear Some Blues Downstairs: A Critical Review of Fenton Robinson's Album

Blues music has been around for a long time, but one artist who truly made a name for himself in the genre was Fenton Robinson. He had an impressive career that spanned decades, and one of his most notable works was his album, I Hear Some Blues Downstairs. In this blog post, we'll take a deep dive into this album, explore its history, genre, and songs, and critically examine its overall impact.

First, let's talk about Fenton Robinson and the album's genre. Robinson was an American blues singer, songwriter, and guitarist who started his career in the 1950s. He was known for his smooth and soulful voice and his ability to play the guitar with incredible skill. I Hear Some Blues Downstairs was released in 1977, and it's considered a classic example of the Chicago blues genre. This genre is characterized by its use of electric guitars, harmonicas, and a rhythm section that typically includes bass and drums.

Next, let's take a closer look at some of the album's best songs. Somebody Loan Me A Dime is one of the standout tracks, and it's been covered by many other artists since its release. The song tells the story of a man who is down on his luck and needs a little help to get back on his feet. The Getaway is another great track that showcases Robinson's guitar skills, and You Don't Know What Love Is is a slow and soulful ballad that highlights his smooth voice.

One of the most innovative parts of this album is the fact that Robinson recorded it in a basement. This gives the album a raw and gritty sound that perfectly complements the blues genre. The album also features guest appearances from other notable blues musicians, like Joe Jammer and Phillip Guy, which adds to its overall richness and complexity.

Now, let's turn our attention to some of the criticisms of the album. While I Hear Some Blues Downstairs is undoubtedly a classic in the genre, some critics have argued that it's not necessarily Robinson's strongest work. They point out that some of the tracks feel a bit repetitive and that the album as a whole doesn't quite measure up to some of his other albums, like Somebody Loan Me A Dime.

In conclusion, I Hear Some Blues Downstairs is a classic album in the blues genre, and it's well worth a listen for anyone who loves this kind of music. It features some standout tracks, like Somebody Loan Me A Dime and The Getaway, and the fact that it was recorded in a basement gives it a unique and raw sound. While some critics may argue that it's not Robinson's strongest work, there's no denying that it deserves a place in any serious blues music lover's collection.