Missy Andersen: New Diva from the Old School

Blues Wax By Richard Ludmerer February 25, 2010

"Something about Soul" speaks to me, and if you dip it in some Blues, it's even better. It has nothing to do with the notes. It's about the story and the feeling. Missy has absorbed the music through listening and self discovery. She has opened for Cissy Houston and sung backup for Earl Thomas as a member of his Jezebelles. This is an introduction to her voice and artistry. The album was recorded in Copenhagen, Denmark and produced by her husband, guitarist Heine Andersen. Rounding out the terrific band are Asmus Jensen, drums; Søren Bøjgaard, bass; and Jeppe Juul, Hammond organ. On five of the eight tracks, horn arrangements have been added by San Diego's Robbie Smith on trumpet, who along with saxophonist Bob Mathes, help make these the album's finest tracks. Andersen opens with "Ace of Spades" written by Deadric Malone, a.k.a. Don Robey (the legendary owner of the Duke/Peacock Record labels), and originally recorded by O.V. Wright. On the original "New Feet," the band continues to help Andersen light it up with impressive solos from Heine and Juul. Andersen makes Etta James' "Tell Mama" new again, and her version of Freddie King's "Pack It Up" will leave you coming back for more. She tones it down on Ann Peebles' "I Can't Stand the Rain" with Paul Cougill guesting on the Wurlitzer organ. Her voice can be gritty or complex. Her choice of material shows her appreciation for songs that tell a story. Her versions of Don Nix's "Same Old Blues" and Junior Wells' "Little By Little" are wonderful. The album closes with a second original, "Stand Up and Dance" featuring Nathan James on dobro. This is one of the most exciting debut recordings I've heard. Missy Andersen is at the beginning of what should be a long and bright career. Richard Ludmerer is a contributing editor at BluesWax. You may contact Richard at blueswax@visnat.com.