This page contains a brief overview on the album THE ALAN MARCUS BLUES PROJECT: Kicked Around Blues. Learn more about the artist and explore the track lists and website. If you find any information that needs to be corrected, please let us know.

 
All ten songs are written by Alan Marcus. Marcus sings and plays guitar (1979 Les Paul 'Custom', 1969 'Fender Twin' amplifier. David Maxwell on drums (Art Steele, Tupelov; and 'legendary' Jerry Ellis on bass (former Arista Recording artists The Elevators, Ray Mason, Mark Nomad, Jim K.

This CD is the Winner of several CD release awards in Western Massachusetts as well as received acclaim from local radio stations and audience feedback.

Alan Marcus's blues-guitar work was influenced by listening to guitarists such as B.B.King, Jimi Hendrix, Eric Clapton, Johnny Winter, Carlos Santana and Wes Montgomery and to Brazilian guitarist Lanny Gordin.

In the late 1980's and early 1990's Marcus performed with his Brazilian blues trio, the Blue Jeans, on Brazilian national TV, at Blues Festivals and Brazilian venues, on radio shows and in an award-winning MTV video: "O Cachaceiro".
REVIEWS:
THE RECORDER
Greenfield, MA
Excerpts by Sheryl Hunter 08/01

Singer/songwriter/guitarist Alan Marcus, bassist Jerry Ellis and drummer David Maxwell, have only been making music together for a year, but in that short time they've made a strong mark on the local music scene. The trio recently released their first studio effort, "Kicked Around Blues." The 10 tracks on "Kicked Around Blues" were all written by Greenfield resident Marcus and include a mix of vocal tunes and instrumentals. At the core of this disc is Marcus' impressive guitar work; while his playing always sizzles, Marcus is not one of those guitarist's who rely on flashy, overblown solos to get their point across. Throughout the disc, Marcus' stinging breaks are restrained and never lose sight of the songs at hand. The songs here are a memorable bunch that are rooted in tradition. Marcus' smooth but plaintive voice conveys the full array of emotions that we've come to expect from the best of the blues. The duo have proved to be the perfect rhythm section for Marcus, providing the strong yet subtle support his music requires.

The Blues Project has been building up a solid fan base by getting out there and playing their hearts out. They can even count Kurt Vonnegut as a fan. The famed author commented on how impressed he was with the band when he happened upon one of their shows at Mulino's in Northampton earlier this summer.

THE AMHERST BULLETIN
Arts and Leisure - Blues Brazilian style
By Batia Charpak 02/24/01

In a time when Latin American pop music reigns supreme on the music charts in the United States it's hard to find an alternative South American sound. Local audiences can do just that, when the Alan Marcus Blues Project takes the stage. Alan Marcus, the front man for this blues band brings his Brazilian roots into his electric guitar riffs. The other members of the trio are Jerry Ellis on the bass and David Maxwell on drums.


THE MASSACHUSETTS DAILY COLLEGIAN
Arts and Living
By Joe Cardozo Feb/2001

The band has a classic blues-rock sound and Marcus' style is very reminiscent of Stevie Ray Vaughn. Their CD is a combination of originals and classic blues tunes such as "Red House" which was made famous by Jimi Hendrix. The band is very tight and Marcus' Guitar work is excellent. For a fan of classic blues-rock. The Alan Marcus Blues Project is a sure bet.



THE RECORDER
Greenfield, MA
Jan 4, 2001
Sheryl Hunter's 10 Local Albums of the Year
"The Alan Marcus Blues Project" - The Alan Marcus Blues Project:

Overall, this disc serves as a good introduction to the band and showcases Marcus's talents on the guitar. He is a gifted player, who's frequent solos are what makes this recording standout, of course he's helped by the capable rhythm section of bassist Jerry Ellis and drummer David Maxwell.


VALLEY ADVOCATE
Springfield, MA
December 2000
excerpt from Tricia Asklar on the self-titled Live CD - The Alan Marcus Blues Project

"The vocals convey a sense of Marcus' unassuming nature. His driving extended electric guitar jams give a much more aggressive impression. Whatever the tempo, he works his guitar in jams that seem completely fitting, and near the end of his song "Waiting for You" you'll even hear a few quiet riffs that reveal Marcus' Brazilian influences at work."

Track List:
1. Kicked Around Blues
2. Blue Octaver
3. Instra Mental
4. Broken Wing
5. Burn and Fade Away
6. Soul Searching
7. Traffic Jam
8. Forgive Me
9. Waiting for You
10. So Long

Suggested CDs:

• Alan Marcus Band
• Curtis
• Michael Monarch

Other Genres:

• BLUES: English Style
• BLUES: Electric Blues
• FEATURING GUITAR