The Fabulous Thunderbirds – “Different Tacos” – Country Town Music CTM-1006 

Twenty-two cuts of pure enthusiastic, reverent, well-honed, and polished blues mastery shine brightly on this collection!  Released in 1996, this outing brings together outtakes each from the band’s first four albums; T-Bird Rhythm, What’s The Word, ‘Girls Go Wild’, and Butt Rockin’ collections, selections recorded from the soundboard at a 1980 German TV show, a cut captured at a 1980 show from a U.K. University Of Exeter performance, and sides from a show at Austin, Texas’ famed club The Bottom Line; it’s all blues magnificence!

Here we revel in the highly-skilled Kim Wilson thrilling with his vocals and harmonica mastery, Jimmie Vaughan showcasing his broad guitar skill set, with both Fran Christina and Mike Buck framing things ideally with their respective drumming proficiencies, while Keith Furguson captivates with his low-end rumblings.  In addition, Al Copley adds tremendously to the blues celebration with his vastly stellar piano work, while Doug James lends considerable baritone saxophone appeal.  Also, Johnny Nicholas brings his grand vocal and keyboard prowess to the fore, while Greg Piccolo’s always-great tenor saxophone labors enhance the proceedings.  Finally, rhythm guitar is proficiently provided by Bill Campbell. 

Regardless of the cut and where and when it was chronicled, and regardless of the band composition, there is not a weak selection to be found.

The Fabulous Thunderbirds have always shown veneration for the blues, and one listen to this CD completely reinforces that thought.  This outing is a blues party through-and-through!  Pick it up, and your blues spirit will rise!

Highly-recommended!