The Mathematics Of Love

New England-based blues guitarist/vocalist Peter Parcek varies between hard and soft sounds, keeping the music contemporary while occasionally throwing the voodoo down. With his appeal stretching out on several different levels, one cannot help but be compelled with every move he makes, and listen to more of this fine CD. His sparse instrumental backdrop seduces you, while the vocal content of his songs about life and living reels you in further. His singing and overall approach are very reminiscent of latter-period Charlie Musselwhite, a balance of underground and mystery within roots music territory. With help from the legendary organist Al Kooper, Parcek offers star power as well alongside his working band of drummer Steve Smith and either bassist Marty Ballou or Marc Hickox, along with accompanying string players Jim Ryan and Dan Kellar. Mindful of the tradition, Parcek skillfully covers wide-ranging songs by "Cousin Joe" Pleasant and Jessie Mae Hemphill, and knocks Mississippi Fred McDowell's ultimate shuffle "Kokomo Me Baby" and Peter Green's (Parcek lived in the U.K. for a spell) rambling, beat-oriented "Showbiz Blues" completely out of the park. Several originals prove Parcek a restrained performer beyond his downtown blues-rock image, digging into the acoustic realm alongside guest guitarist Ronnie Earl for "New Year's Eve," in a slowed-down mood a la Muddy Waters during the title track, and hopped-up old-school style with his guitar on the instrumental "Rollin' with Zah." The breadth and depth of this recording is one to savor, a treat for die-hard blues fans who understand the entire tradition of this music, and a definite feather in the cap for Parcek and his mates on this excellent recording that comes highly recommended. ~ Michael G. Nastos