Missy Andersen: Missy Andersen

Music City Blues By Sheryl and Don Crow August 2009

Detroit-born Missy Andersen was heavily influenced by her parents’ record collection, and her mom worked with her at an early age to help young Missy find "her voice." Steeped in the traditions of the classic soul and blues stylists, Missy's self-titled debut release is an eight-cut affair that gives her an opportunity to show off her beautiful vocal styles. After moving to San Diego, she met up with veteran bluesman Earl Thomas, who obviously knew a good thing when he heard it, putting her in his traveling revue, the Juke Joint Jezebelles. After several years of touring with Earl, she struck out on her own, and this set is the result. Husband Heine is on guitar, Jeppe Juul is on keys, Søren Bøjgaard is on bass, and Asmus Jensen is on drums. They kick things off with a rousing run at O. V. Wright's funky "Ace Of Spades." "New Feet," one of two originals on this set, finds Missy trying to escape one of those "chokin' kind" of relationships, and needs to "move in another direction." Good friend and fellow San Diegan Nathan James adds sweet Dobro on the other original, the celebration of life entitled "Stand Up And Dance." We had two favorites, too. "Same Old Blues" mixes Missy's strong soul convictions with a sweet gospel feel. And, "I Can't Stand The Rain" drips with the deep soul-groove of the original, and features some fine organ work from Paul Cougill. Missy puts it best in her description of her style--soul is a feeling, and it's made all the better by "dipping it" in a bit of blues. We think you'll find her debut quite a pleasurable listen!