Review of Bang at the Door

By: Peter Merrett, PBS 106.7 FM, Melbourne, Australia

TRACK BY TRACK

*** Track 1. - "Bang At The Door" Composed by Donna Herula.
* Donna Herula: Vocals, Resonator Guitars.
* FJ Ventre: Upright Bass, Shakers.
* Dana Thalheimer: Drums.
From the very first note of this opening track l was completely enraptured by the enigmatic hypnotic sound of one Donna Herula's gorgeous Resonator guitar. For me when l first heard Son House l instantly fell in love completely with that distinctive mesmerizing sound. Donna Herula is a true maestro of the instrument and if this is any indication then l know l am in for treat after treat. Vocally Herula has a wonderful tonality to her voice and for me there is a distinctive Rockabilly twang to her voice. With such a powerful singer and guitarist the band needs to be equally as talented and here that most certainly is the case. FJ Ventre on upright bass and shakers is joined by Dana Thalheimer on drums to form one formidable rhythm section. What a wonderful introduction this is and man this lady can play!

*** Track 2. - "Pass The Biscuits" Composed by Donna Herula.
*Donna Herula: Vocals, Resonator Guitar.
* Doug Hammer: Piano.
* FJ Ventre: Upright Bass.
* Dana Thalheimer: Drums.
* Tony Pons: Trumpet.
* Rebecca Toon: Backup Vocals.
The King Biscuit Time Radio Show has been for many a year a must listen to show and here Donna Herula pays tribute to the legendry DJ the late Sonny Payne. Forming a lifelong friend this New Orleans inspired song encapsulates all that is good about what Sonny Payne did for music and the local artists including Herula who developed a life-long friendship with him. This second line strolling rambling joy in true Big Easy style is a fitting tribute to her mentor. Once again the Resonator guitar in Herula's hands is just a marvel to hear and it is her majestic playing that encapsulates all that is good about N'awlins. Throughout Herula also pays tribute to many of the influential artist from these environs. Doug Hammer lays down the Longhair style of piano that is the essence of the Nola sound and here his performance is brilliant. Keeping this second line marching in time FJ Ventre plies his incredible talents on upright bass along with the incomparable drumming of Dana Thalheimer as one super tight rhythm section. Trumpeter Tony Pons continues that Nola sound as he resonates throughout on trumpet. Joining Herula and her stunning engaging vocals Rebecca Toon adds her wonderful voice to with the back up vocals. What a wonderful tribute this is to Sonny Payne.

*** Track 3. - "Can't Wait To See My Baby" Composed by Donna Herula.
* Donna Herula: Vocals, Resonator Guitars.
* Tony Nardiello: Vocals.
* FJ Ventre: Electric Bass.
* Dana Thalheimer: Drums.
What a mesmerizing introduction by Donna Herula on Resonator guitar with this enigmatic Chicago two step Blues. Then the surprise comes with a real punch as Herula and Tony Nardiello trade vocal leads with effortless control but it is the seamless combinations of their voices that certainly grabs hold of you as they sound as though this is indeed a permanent arrangement. What a tour de force this is vocally and one that feels oh so good. The rhythm section is tight and holds this wonderful two step beat perfectly and as tight as a snare drum. The brilliant FJ Ventre is on electric bass along with drummer Dana Thalheimer to show just how good they are. As with the previous two songs this is also a Donna Herula composition and it patently displays her grasp of Blues and all of the idiosyncratic ways about it. What a mesmerizing song with the strongest of performances throughout. Just love it!

*** Track 4. - "Promise Me" Composed by Donna Herula.
* Donna Herula: Vocals, Resonator Guitar.
* Tony Nardiello: Acoustic Guitar.
* Jon Shain: Mandolin.
* FJ Ventre: Upright Bass.
Acoustically Donna Herula has few who can match her intricate Resonator guitar runs that are as sweet and smooth as honey. Vocally l truly believe that she is in a league of her own what with here her very distinctive folk inspired style on this song that is so very emotional when you listen to the lyrics and realize that it is about her life's love is in jail and she is alone at home. A gentle heartfelt call to someone not there displays the loss and pain it has caused. Tony Nardiello's acoustic guitar resonates beautifully throughout and is a wonderful counter balance to Herula's Resonator guitar. The sadness of the song certainly is tangible to say the least. The wonderful sound of the Mandolin is omnipresent throughout and Jon Shain certainly is a true maestro. There is no rhythm section per say but FL Ventre holds down this all important position single handily on upright bass. What a delight this is and what a stunning delicate heartfelt performance from all concerned. Definitely Herula at her best as a vocalist, guitarist and of course as a composer.

*** Track 5. - "Not Lookin' Back" Composed by Donna Herula.
* Donna Herula: Vocals, Resonator Guitar.
* Doug Hammer: Piano.
* FJ Ventre: Upright Bass.
* Dana Thalheimer: Drums.
Now this is a surprise what with the distinct change of direction and sound. Such a Jazz inspired lounge style of song that certainly has Donna Herula in an evening gown on stage in front of a small combo in some Chicago supper club singing as a true chateaus. Her guitar takes on a whole new life but man it just sounds so right playing Jazz, hey l said it and l stand by it. What a slinky, sexy song it is and Herula casts a spell over all of her audience. In keeping with this lounge inspired sound Doug Hammer is scintillating on piano as he lays down some of the most brilliant of runs across the keys. With this being a small combo the talent is very rich indeed and the rhythm section resplendent in dinner suits is as tight as their bow ties. Drummer Dana Thalheimer and upright bassist FJ Ventre are inspired in their playing providing stunning showcases of the combined and individual talents. What a revelation of a song that just oozes sass and sex appeal.

*** Track 6. -"I Got No Way Home" Composed by Donna Herula.
* Donna Herula: Vocals, Resonator Guitar.
* Daryl Davis: Piano.
* Bill Newton: Harmonica.
* FJ Ventre: Upright Bass.
* Katherine Davis: Backup Vocals.
* Tony Nardiello: Backup Vocals.
* Rebecca Toon: Backup Vocals.
You can leave North Carolina for a foray into Chicago but heh it's gonna be a good ole knees up when you return. Here we have a back porch dust raiser as Donna Herula on Resonator guitar trades licks with reed master harmonica whizz Bill Newton. Not to be left out of the party Daryl Davis reels off rolling rollicking piano with an abandon that is so very infectious. With an infectious groove this one is all about having a good time and with the addition of a stunning congregation of backing singers Katherine Davis, Tony Nardiello and Rebecca Toon the party gets into high steppin' good times. Rounding out the sound is the sublimely talented rhythm section made up by upright bassist one FJ Ventre who single handily steadfastly propels the song along it's jump jivin' bounce. Another great Donna Herula performance on vocals and another sublime song from her pen.

*** Track 7. - "Black Ice" Composed by Donna Herula.
* Donna Herula: Resonator Guitar.
* FJ Ventre: Percussion.
Right before l started listening to this highly anticipated album l anxiously hoped that there would be a raucous Donna Herula Resonator guitar led instrumental showcase of her sublime talents and here it is. Somewhat a bit more subtle than l expected but the sheer brilliance shines through like a star in the sky as she scintillatingly displays her talents that are beyond doubt. Assisted only by and importantly by percussionist extraordinaire FJ Ventre. The sound is exquisite and there is a complexity within the charts that are belied by the performance. Once again Herula displays in her composing the most perfect understanding of the versatility of her guitar and of course the Blues.

*** Track 8. - "Fixin' To Die" Composed by Booker T. Washington White, aka Bukka White, with the fourth verse composed by Donna Herula.
* Donna Herula: Vocals, Resonator Guitars, Foot Stomps.
I first heard this Chicago masterpiece from composer and performer "Bukka" White from it's original Delta style that was recorded in Chicago in 1940 but with only a washboard accompaniment. Here Donna Herula pays perfect homage to the original but with her very own inimitable stylings. Her Resonator guitar is the showpiece as it was for Bukka White but her vocals are something else as she wrings every ounce of emotion from the lyrics. I suppose when you are going to tackle such a seminal song it is fraught with all sorts of fears as to just how the purist will accept this contemporary take on such a song. For me this is just so very desirable and there is a freshness about it that hasn't been stifled by worry of offending even the harshest of critics. Just one listen will allay and fears that this is indeed sublime. Added to her superb playing and singing Herula provides the obligatory foot stomps that emulate the washboard rhythms of the original.

*** Track 9. - "Jackson" Composed by Lucinda Williams.
* Tony Nardiello: Vocals, Acoustic Guitar.
* Donna Herula: Backup Vocals, Resonator Guitar.
Now this is simply superb and so very delicate but resonates with so much emotion. Guest and partner Tony Nardiello steps to the microphone to sing lead on this gorgeous Folk Blues that was composed by Lucinda Williams. Nardiello combines the brilliance of his vocals with acoustic guitar and the results are heartstopingly beautiful. Donna Herula may have taken a step back for her partner on this but none the less her contribution is undeniable as she adds her considerable voice as the backup singer. So much singing talent between them that one needs to constantly draw breath as you listen in awe of this combination. Then we need look at Herula's scintillating Resonator guitar that is some what more subtle here but again her touch and placement is just perfect.

*** Track 10. - "Movin" Back Home" Composed by Donna Herula.
* Donna Herula: Vocals, Resonator Guitar.
* Jon Shain: Acoustic Guitar.
* FJ Ventre: Upright Bass.
* Janine Grandsart: Backup Vocals.
* Donna Heryula: Backup Vocals.
* Chris Holda: Backup Vocals.
* Tony Nardiello: Backup Vocals.
* Jon Shain: Backup Vocals.
* FJ Ventre: Backup Vocals.
1920's style Ragtime Blues never sounded like so much fun as this one displays but then you realize that it is situated in the 1980's and not 100 years ago. The stories the same but the objects mentioned are about as far removed as can be. Donna Herula displays a rather cheeky side with this comedic offering and she appears to enjoy the freedom it offers. Her Resonator guitar is perfectly suited to the style and her adaptability is on display as she regales us with her gorgeous playing and vocal dexterity. Jon Shain doesn't shy away and his acoustic guitar is superb. FJ Ventre joins in on upright bass to be part of the uncomplicated instrumental bed of the song. With this being said one can only smile when Janine Grandsart, Donna Herula herself, Chris Holda, Tony Nardiello, Jon Shain and FJ Ventre provide the joyous fun filled backing vocals. This certainly is a celebration of a style of music long forgotten, unfortunately, but when given a modern slant from the pen of Donna Herula the style that is old is instantly new again.

*** Track 11. - "Got What I Deserve" Composed by Jon Shain & Donna Herula.
* Donna Herula: Vocals, Backup Vocals.
* Anne Harris: Fiddle.
* Jon Shain: Acoustic Guitar.
* FJ Ventre: Upright Bass, Tambourine.
Very much in the Ozark Mountain style of country Blues the addition of the fiddle from Anne Harris has one feeling the authenticity of the style and the environs it comes from. A distinctive style that perfectly showcases the sublime singing talents of Donna Herula and then you hear that heart warming Resonator guitar one can only feel the deep down warmth it projects. Looking at life from a woman's perspective this song composed by Jon Shain and Donna Herula is rather self deprecating in the lyrics as she tends to blame herself for all of the ills and woes that have befallen her. Jon Shain provides the counter balance to Herula on acoustic guitar and once again this combination is superb. One man rhythm section FJ Ventre is omnipresent on upright bass but also here on tambourine. What a wonderful exposé on life it is but gee you don't have to accept you got what you deserve.

*** Track 12. - "Who's Been Cooking In My Kitchen: Composed by Donna Herula.
* Donna Herula: Vocals, Acoustic Guitar.
This is a wonderful showcase of the incredibly talented Donna Herula with just an acoustic guitar in hand and a self penned song she again takes a look at life from a woman's point of view. This wonderfully composed acoustic Blues really does showcase her incredible understanding of that older style of 1920's Blues. Vocally a showcase of her incredible talents and a pure indicator that she is one of a very rare breed of performers who have been gifted with talents that we can only dream of.

*** Track 13. - "Something's Wrong With My Baby" Composed by Donna Herula.
* Donna Herula: Vocals, Resonator Guitar.
* FJ Ventre: Upright Bass.
Now if l'm not mistaken l do believe l hear the dulcet tones of a 1935 National Steel Triolian guitar and l have just died and gone to heaven. The sound, tone and vibrancy is so very distinctive and in the hands of maestro Donna Herula life is good. Another part of a trilogy of songs that are part of the previous two songs Herula certainly understands all of the struggles, pain and discontent for many a woman in today's society. Her vocals have a pained overtone that is just so engaging but also offer a real poignancy to the song. One can only hope that for Herula these three songs are not prophetic but rather observational. FJ Ventre again is the indomitable one man rhythm section on upright base who is absolutely rock solid throughout with the most deft of playing.

*** Track 14. - "The Soul Of A man" Composed by Wille Johnson.
* Donna Herula: Vocals, Resonator Guitar.
* FJ Ventre: Upright Bass.
* Katherine Davis: Backup Vocals.
* Tony Nardiello: Backup Vocals.
* Jon Shain: backup Vocals.
* Rebecca Toon: Backup Vocals.
Ahh yes the "Blind" Willie Johnson classic from the 1930's which many believe the backing voice was that of his wife Willie B. Harris but l will leave that up to the experts to decide on. Here Donna Herula reverses the singing with her incomparable voice on lead and the backing vocals from Katherine Davis, Tony Nardiello, Jon Shain and Rebecca Toon in what is a masterful display of singing. Everything about this is simply perfect and as such the years have peeled away with the song displaying the Gospel feel that was apart of all Blind Willie's songs is just as relevant today as it was then. With Herula's gorgeously expressive Resonator guitar you only need to add the superb upright bass playing from FJ Ventre to achieve pure excellence such as this.

Back in the 1950's l was introduced via a scratchy 78rpm of one Edward James House Jr. from Lyon Mississippi. The experience would forever change me and the impact of that brutal emotion drenched music resonates equally today as it did for that very young boy then to hear his singing with a voice that shook your very soul pounding deeply into your very psyche. The resonator guitar was a mainstay in Hawaiian music but would forever be changed in the hands of a preacher who would be forever known as Son House. Just listening to his playing was like hearing the squeal and storm created by wild banshees. Slide guitar had come of age and to this day the sound of a Resonator guitar instantly "resonates" with me. Come forward to 2009 and the self titled album by one Donna Herula appeared and this self titled acoustic Blues album was a clear indicator that the style and influence of Son House had not been lost for here we have a truly gifted virtuoso of the Resonator guitar who also possesses the most stunning of voices. Herula is a Chicago born Blues artist of the highest order who not only sings, plays slide but also is a more than accomplished composer. For her third album, "Bang At The Door", Herula has composed ten tracks, one with Jon Shain but also included a Lucinda Williams song plus one from Willie Johnson and one from Booker T. "Bukka" Washington White. All of these songs are like the most perfect of gumbo one could ever ingest and every some part of the recipe is simply divine. Take two parts 1920's add some 1980' then a pinch of Ozark Mountain music, a tad country Blues, season with some slinky jazz, then some Folk inspired Blues. Gently stir until perfect, season with sublime performers such as drummer Dana Thalheimer, bassist FJ Ventre, acoustic guitarist Tony Nardiello, pianist Doug Hammer, harmonica player Bill Newton, pianist Daryl Davies, trumpeter Tony Pons, lead vocalist Tony Nardiello, acoustic guitar and mandolin Jon Shain, Anne Harris on fiddle, then stir in the sublime backing voices of Katherine Davis, Rebecca Toon, Jon Shain, Tony Nardiello, FJ Ventre, Chris Holda, brilliant songs and the meal is complete and fit for a king. Yes it may be fit for a king but when you serve up a gumbo such as this then you know that it will be the very best meal you have ever partaken in so l suggest you go purchase this tastiest of Blues albums and enjoy the bountiful gifts it offers. A glorious album unsurpassed in quality.

Review of Bang at the Door
by Peter Merrett, PBS 106.7 Melbourne, AustraliaPeter Merrett, PBS 106.7FM, Melbourne, Australia