Stevey Hay's Shades Of Blue

Stevey Hay's Shades Of Blue

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About Stevey Hay's Shades Of Blue

Stevey Hay - Guitar and vocals Neil Warden - Guitar Paul Manson - Bass Dave Swanson - Drums It is hard to believe this is the debut album from a veteran of the Scottish blues scene, 35 years after taking up playing the guitar. A full time musician following his redundancy from his community centre job at the tender age of 50, Stevey now has time to pursue his career with a new band, Shades of Blue. His pedigree augurs well for future success as his background includes touring with Charlie Musselwhite, appearing with Robert Cray and supporting Popa Chubby and Matt Schofield. The late Tam White, also from Edinburgh, respected Stevey’s talent and offered much encouragement. lndeed, Shades Of Blue comprise drummer Dave Swanson and bassist Paul Manson, both former members of Tam White’s backing group, The Dexters. Similarly, guitarist and composer Neil Warden, who masterminded this project, recorded and performed extensively with Tam whilst also working with other luminaries such as Maggie Bell and the late Boz Burrell. Not surprisingly given the blues DNA in the line up, this is a high quality CD with some well-chosen covers and a sprinkling of Hay originals. Stevey puts his own stamp on B B King's ‘Sell My Monkey’, with the assistance of the excellent John Burgess on tenor saxophone. Similarly, The Fabulous Thunderbirds’ ‘Why Get Up’ is given the Hay laidback groove, as is Mark Knopfler’s ‘Fade To Black’, with guest pianist Brian Kellock giving a very good impersonation of Otis Spann. However, it is the original material which stands out, notably ‘Keep Out Of Love',‘ Backyard Blues’ and the despairing ‘Losin’ with The Boozin’ showcasing Hay at the peak of his vocal and guitar prowess, ably supported by the innovative axeman and co-writer, Neil Warden. Stevey has the determination, the ability and the musicians around him to be a great success. He is an inspiration to the hundreds of other blues men and women out there who have plied their trade and paid their dues over many years without the recognition they deserve. Stevey Hay - Guitar and vocals Stevey has been burning up venues since his early days in Edinburgh. Fluent in a variety of guitar styles from Surf to Jazz, Blues remains his first love. He has toured as harmonica legend Charlie Musselwhite’s guitarist, and appeared on stage with Robert Cray. Neil Warden - Guitar Neil is well known for his funky blues style of guitar playing, having performed at many international festivals for the last 25 years with Scottish Blues/Jazz singer Tam White. He also recorded on Tam' s last 5 CDs along with ex Bad Company/King Crimson bass player Boz Burrell. Neil also toured and played in West End Theatre shows (London) with cabaret performer Camille O'Sullivan. “Neil has a style and technique which is envied by many. His amazing dancing fingers conjured up a variety of blues riffs and licks throughout the performance, to the fascination of all.” Orkney Gazette (Orkney Blues Festival) Dave Swanson - Drums Dave has played in a variety of styles for over 40 years with people as diverse as: Demis Roussos, Stanley Baxter, Ronnie Corbett, Francie and Josie, Humphrey Lyttleton, Georgie Fame, Zoot Money, Louisiana Red, Acker Bilk, Al Cohn, Bobby Watson, Roy Williams, Tal Farlow, Louis Stewart, Red Rodney, Carol Kidd, Benny Waters, Charlie Musselwhite. He is also is a long time member of Alec Shaw trio and Tam White and the Dexters. Paul Manson - Bass Making it look deceptively easy, Paul's understated bass playing has been the solid underpinning of countless Scottish bands for longer than he likes to be reminded. Sensitive in his approach to all musical genres, he has complimented a diverse catalogue of local and International performers. Long time member of Tam White and the Dexters.

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