Search - Sunpie :: Lick a Hot Skillet

Try to see 'em live, but if you can't, then buy this CD!

Klaus Borchers (klausbbb@aol.com) | Kaiserslautern, Germany | 08/28/1998

(5 out of 5 stars)

"I have seen Sunpie and the louisiana Sunspots live on a european tour at Sarreguemines, and i was absolutely fascinated by their music and the great show they put on. This CD, rather than the other available one, 'loup garou', best catches the spirit of their incredible performance and the fun they had and conveyed to their audience."

Now that's a Tongue!

David M. Stalcup | Bakersfield, CA USA | 09/08/2001

(3 out of 5 stars)

"In New Orleans, Bruce "Sunpie" (a family nickname) Barnes stands out as the best blues harmonicist in town. His innovative and energetic style draws equally from such late greats as Sonny Boy Williamson, and modernists such as Lee Oskar and Carey Bell. Sunpie has further distinguished himself as a zydeco accordionist and a powerful singer, as the leader of a hot, popular band known as the Louisiana Sunspots. Sunpie also maintains his job as a naturalist and tour guide at Jean Lafitte National Park, imparting his vast knowledge of Louisiana's swamps and wetlands. Sunpie grew up in Benton, Arkansas, where his father played "blues harp" at clubs and picnics, and more importantly, for the pure enjoyment of his family. After attending Henderson State University on a football scholarship (and playing gigs on the side), Sunpie played professional football as a member of the Kansas City Chiefs. In December 1991, Sunpie teamed up with veteran drummer Harold Ray Brown, best known for his work with War, and formed an eclectic and funky new group called Sunpie and the Louisiana Sunspots. Barnes possesses a low, booming voice and a great sense of humor, too. These are all written by Sunpie, except (8 & 12). It mixes zydeco and blues tracks, and showcases Sunpie's powerful vocals. Not the greatest instrumentalist, the energetic Barnes manages to set several good grooves, and the Sunspots cover his moves. Worthy of investigation for you zydeco hogs. Play 3-4, 7, & 11"