Music Maker artist: Ninth Wonder - Ironing Board Sam - New Release Review

I just got a copy of the Ninth Wonder of The World of Music, a "Lost" release by Ironing Board Sam on Music Makers. This is a recording that was made in 1967 according to the liner notes of this limited run of 100 copies. The date may be a little off as at least one track, a cover of Stevie Wonder's Boogie On Reggae Woman, was written by Wonder in 74. In any case, the cd opens with Cherry Pie, a R&B (Doo Wop style) track that is actually pretty interesting. The Island Song (Yellow Bird)is up next and keys are used to simulate marimbas. Do The Ironing Board has a definite 60's vibe with monkey effects and all. This would have been when the fad was to have creative dance steps of your own (the Monkey, the Twist, the Mashed Potatoes, etc). This is a pretty funky track with some fairly cool vocal work. Traditional song Danny Boy is given total ballad treatment, Ray Charles style... again showing Sam's range of creativity. Boogie On Reggae Woman is up next and Sam does a pretty cool version of it. The basic arrangement follows Wonder's pretty closely but Sam gives it his own flair. Going Up Going Down is a take on Jimmy Rogers where Sam not only sings a good track but demonstrates his keyboard work. Purple Raindrops is a solid blues track demonstrating Sam at his best on vocals and sensitivity. Sam takes a jazzy uptempo play on Bye Bye Blackbird wrapping up a pretty entertaining recording.
If you like what I’m doing, Like ---Bman’s Blues Report--- Facebook Page! I’m looking for great talent and trying to grow the audience for your favorites band! - ”LIKE”