Junior Wells Returns with Mixed Results

Junior Wells' return to the stage was met with mixed expectations, as fans familiar with his post-war Chicago blues style were disappointed by the prominent display of soul material and lack of sustained harmonica solos. Despite a tight and professional performance by the Chicago All Stars, Wells' decision to favor up-tempo soul numbers, such as James Brown classics, left some in the audience wanting more blues. The second set saw a more balanced mix of blues material, but even this was not without its shortcomings, particularly in the horn section's lack of participation.

Key Takeaways:

• Junior Wells' performance was marked by a significant emphasis on soul material, with only a few blues songs included in the first set.
• Wells' harmonica playing was limited to sparse, outburst-style solos, rather than sustained performances.
• The Chicago All Stars were tight and professional, but some members seemed less enthusiastic, particularly in the second set.
• The horn section was largely inactive, only participating in a few songs, such as "Help Me".
• Wells' vocals displayed the authority of experience, but lacked the passion and energy of his heyday.
• The opening set by local singer-guitarist Dutch Tilders and his band, The Holey Soles, offered a refreshing change of pace with their acoustic, jazzy sound.

Statistics:

• The Chicago All Stars consisted of seven members, including Wells.
• The setlists featured a mix of soul and blues material, with only a few traditional blues songs included.
• Wells played a limited amount of harmonica, preferring to focus on vocals.
• The horn section was largely inactive, participating in only a few songs.
• The second set saw a more balanced mix of blues material, but still lacked the passion and energy of Wells' heyday.

Sources:

• The Continental Cafe, Saturday
• Continental Cafe, Saturday

*_Location: Junior Wells,

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