Fankhauser Cassidy Band

Merrell Fankhauser and friends return to the forefront of the rock-blues music scene with a new double CD entitled "Fankhauser/Cassidy Band-Further On Up The Road." The album's title was taken from the song "Further On Up The Road", which is on "On The Blue Road" CD. The group had enough material to release a entirely new album but the Akarma record label decided to re-release the previously recorded material plus all the new sessions to create a double CD that emulates the vinyl gatefold packaging of yesteryear.

It's an import, but well worth the price of admission, trust me. The only criticism I have for the layout of this project, is that the label seemed to forget how to make the liner notes readable. By leaving it like the LP, it's a real chore to decipher. I guess hindsight is 20/20 vision. Although I have to give the label the nod for including an inner sleeve with each artist's discography. That's something that isn't normally included with any release.

Those of you that have been following Merrell's career, and my coverage of this fine artist over the last few years, know that when he puts out music it's a special experience for anyone and everyone that has a connection to the man and his music. He is admired and respected by all who come in contact with him. That reason alone, has given him immeasurable success over the past forty years. This success cannot be judged by record sales, oh no. The far reaching appeal of Fankhauser and his music is what sets him apart from his contemporaries.

The groups adaptations of blues standards like "Walking The Dog", and classic rock n' roll like "High Heeled Sneakers", will warm your soul and keep you smilin' for hours. Merrell's son Tim is on hand to lend his biting and snappy guitar to the mix to inject some youthful exuberance and energy to the sound. Ed Cassidy (of Spirit fame), who is 76 years young, cuts loose with a hell bent for leather drum solo on the second CD called "Cassidy's Big Beat." If your feet aren't moving to that song, check for a heartbeat! I could listen to drum solos like that for forever and a day.

As Merrell Fankhauser gets further on up the road of life, his music takes on new meaning and importance. Hopefully this man will receive what he is due very soon. I hope and pray the media and the general public recognize this superb talent while he is alive. It happens all to often in this day and age... people are celebrated after passing this way. The time is now to let Merrell know just how much he is loved and appreciated by the world music community. Visit his site, send him an E mail. He has brought joy and happiness to myself, and my family for years now through his ultimate medium of communication, music. This two set CD is yet another testament to his steadfast loyalty to his craft and his fans. Don't miss this, it's a classic.

Credits and Comments By Merrell Fankhauser