Chris Kramer & Paddy Boy Zimmermann - Tales Of Tampa (2025)

With the album 'Tales of Tampa' Chris Kramer and Paddy Boy Zimmermann delve deep into the musical legacy of Tampa Red , the legendary blues musician known by his birth name Hudson Whittaker. With his unmistakable guitar playing and humorous, often melancholic songwriting, Tampa Red left a unique mark on the blues of the 1930s and 1940s. His works, including classics such as Black Angel Blues and Love Her With A Feeling , are still among the most underrated gems of the genre.

Kramer and Zimmermann set out to not only honor these hidden treasures, but also make them accessible to a new generation of blues lovers. Rather than placing their virtuosity in the foreground, they focus on capturing the essence of Tampa Reds music with respect and finesse. Their craftsmanship is carefully applied to interpret the songs subtly, serviceably, and yet expressively.

Kramer, a virtuoso on the harmonica and a charismatic singer with a pleasantly raw voice, and the masterful guitarist Zimmermann create a tribute with this purely acoustic album that shines the musical work of Tampa Red in a new light. They remain true to the traditional roots of the compositions, but at the same time give the songs a personal touch. Classics such as So Crazy About You Baby and Crying Won't Help You receive a breath of fresh air and a palpable passion in their interpretation.

The recording stands out for its acoustic clarity and the passionate musicality of both artists. Zimmermann, who played all guitar, bass and percussion parts himself, not only shows impressive technical skills, but also a deep understanding of the structure and dynamics of the blues. Kramer complements this with his characteristic harmonica playing and his captivating vocals. The harmonious collaboration between the two musicians and their feeling for the soul of each song make this recording a special listening experience.

With uptempo ragtime pieces and groovy blues shuffles they spread pure joy of life and invite you to move along. These lively moments contrast perfectly with the sensitive, melancholic titles, which impressively reflect the emotional depth of Tampa Red's work.

'Tales Of Tampa' comes with a refreshing lightness and simply brings a good mood. It is an album that will appeal to both connoisseurs of craft music and newcomers to the blues genre.