Wake Up And Worry by Mitch Kashmar: A Blues Blast Worth Losing Sleep Over
Let’s cut to the chase—Mitch Kashmar’s Wake Up And Worry isn’t just another blues album; it’s a raw, electrified gut-punch that’ll leave you gasping for air. Released in 2006 on Delta Groove Productions, this sucker dives deep into Jump Blues, Harmonica Blues, and Electric Blues like nobody’s business. Kashmar doesn’t mess around—he brings grit, soul, and enough swagger to make your speakers sweat.
First off, let’s talk about “Funky Dee.” This track hits hard right outta the gate. Kashmar’s harmonica wails like a banshee with an attitude problem while Junior Watson lays down some greasy guitar licks that stick to your brain like gum under a barstool. The groove is infectious—you can practically smell the whiskey-soaked floorboards of some smoky dive where this jam was born. It’s one of those tracks that makes you wanna grab a mic (or at least pretend) and belt out nonsense lyrics until your throat gives up. You won’t forget “Funky Dee” anytime soon—it’s the kind of song that forces its way into your playlist rotation whether you like it or not.
Then there’s “Wake Up & Worry,” the title track that lives up to its name. From the first beat, Richard Innes’ drums stomp all over the place like they own the joint, and Kashmar’s vocals are as gravelly as a backroad after a rainstorm. There’s something almost unhinged about how everything comes together here—the cowbell clanging away, the organ creeping in like bad news, and Kashmar himself sounding like he’s been chewing on rusty nails for breakfast. By the time the chorus kicks in, you’re already hooked. If this track doesn’t wake you up, nothing will.
Now, credit where it’s due: the whole crew behind this beast deserves props. Producer Randy Chortkoff keeps things tight without losing the loose, live feel that makes blues so damn irresistible. And hats off to Joshua Temkin for the artwork—it’s simple but packs a punch, kinda like Kashmar’s harmonica playing. Speaking of which, dude knows his way around that thing. Whether he’s blowing mournful notes or tearing through fiery solos, Kashmar proves why he’s still a force to be reckoned with.
But here’s the kicker: listening to Wake Up And Worry feels less like hearing an album and more like crashing a wild house party full of rowdy musicians who don’t give a crap what anyone thinks. Tracks bleed into each other seamlessly, yet every single one has its own personality. Even when songs repeat titles (cough “Green Bananas”), they hit differently the second time around because Kashmar and co. refuse to phone it in.
So yeah, if you’re looking for polished perfection, keep walking. But if you want real-deal blues that’ll slap you upside the head and leave you grinning like an idiot, Wake Up And Worry is your ticket. Just don’t blame me if you find yourself humming “Funky Dee” during your morning commute or randomly shouting “Wake Up!” at strangers. Oh, and one last thing—don’t listen to this album alone. Trust me, it’s too good not to share… unless you’re cool with being the only one dancing in your living room at 2 AM.
