Extraordinary Times (The Duo Sessions)

Extraordinary Times (The Duo Sessions)
2020 will go down in history because of the wide-ranging impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on mankind. Natural Blues also suffered greatly from this situation. And not only because concerts did not take place due to the lockdown, the current production of this German-Austrian band was also affected by a border closure lasting several weeks. However, with patience and perseverance it was possible to record and produce this EP.
The Natural Blues Duo Norbert Egger (Vocals & Guitars) & Alex Meik (Double Bass, E-Bass & Vocals) - along with their guests - addresses these “EXTRAORDINARY TIMES” in their music. The dramatic global effects of the Corona pandemic, the existential threat for artists, increasing racism culminating in multiple racist murders, the fateful elections, and the shameful behaviour of the outvoted Donald J. Trump were a motivation and provided themes for these songs.
The duo’s music on this “disc” ranges widely, from classical “unplugged” Country and Delta Blues to the street band style of Chicago’s Maxwell Street to modern Blues Rock. And as if this rich variety were not enough for one EP, it is enriched even more by the contributions of the two guest musicians, Hubert Hofherr (Blues Harp) and Michael Alf (Piano)! The lyrics are diverse - the song texts cover political issues, classical Blues lyrics, and love songs.
Whether live or via studio production: you shouldn’t miss out on hearing the Natural Blues Duo Norbert Egger & Alex Meik.
Natural Blues is the Blues formation created in Hamburg by Norbert Egger (guitar and vocals) in 1982. Initially intended as a “side project”, with its incredibly diverse power Blues and extravagant show, the band evolved to become a main act.
After the death of the founding member and outstanding Blues harp player Heiko Petcke in 2017, Norbert Egger re-formed and expanded the band. At the new formation, Alex Meik (double bass), Hubert Hofherr (Blues harp), and Stefan Schubert (guitar and vocals) joined the band. Blues from all eras of its history is presented, from the earliest country blues on acoustic instruments to the Blues of the 1920s, Mississippi Delta Blues, Chicago Blues and current Blues Rock. As live act, Natural Blues offers an extraordinary stage performance: it is captivating and entertaining, when band leader Norbert Egger throws his jacket across the stage, letting his slide guitar scream while sliding on his knees or lying on the floor, Hubert Hofherr is doing his magic with the Blues harp, Stefan Schubert conjures up his brilliant solos on the parquet, or the whole band involves the audience as a huge background choir.
Natural Blues is elemental primal power, music and a show really worth listening to, captivating any audience!