Dov Hammer Bridges Tel Aviv and Chicago with New Blues Album 'Exile'
Key Insights
Cultural Bridge:: Hammer's project connects the Tel Aviv music scene with the rich heritage of Chicago blues.
Authentic Sound:: The album aims to capture the classic Chicago blues sound, born when Mississippi musicians electrified their music in the city during the 1940s and '50s.
Chicago Collaboration:: Recorded with Chicago blues veterans like guitarist Dave Specter (who also produced), drummer Marty Bender, pianist Jon Kattke, and bassist Rodrigo Mantovani.
Deep Roots:: Hammer was inspired at age 12 by seeing John Lee Hooker in *The Blues Brothers* movie and has dedicated his career to the genre influenced by legends like Little Walter, Muddy Waters, and James Cotton.
Why this matters:: This album highlights the universal language of music and the dedication required to pursue artistic dreams across continents, while preserving and celebrating a unique American art form.
In-Depth Analysis
The journey to *Exile – The Chicago Blues Sessions* began with a single song, "Genuine," which Hammer felt had an authentic Willie Dixon-esque Chicago feel but didn't fit his previous rock-oriented project. Planning a visit to Chicago in summer 2023 for a harmonica event, Hammer contacted guitarist Dave Specter, a connection from past collaborations, to help organize a recording session.
Hammer sought musicians deeply versed in the Chicago blues idiom, capable of delivering the distinct sound characterized by electric guitars, drums, and amplified harmonica—a sound Hammer has emulated throughout his career. Specter assembled a top-tier band familiar with the genre's nuances.
The initial session yielded two tracks: Hammer's original "Genuine" and a cover of Little Walter's "Last Night." The chemistry was so strong that the band, eager to continue, spontaneously recorded a third song, James Cotton's "Take a Message," suggested by Hammer on the spot.
Although the project was paused following the events of October 7, Hammer returned to Chicago in September of the following year to complete the album with largely the same ensemble. Despite being an outsider, Hammer found the Chicago musicians respectful and collaborative, impressed by his deep understanding of the blues. The sessions also featured a guest appearance by vocalist Deirdre Hart on "Just Your Fool," who agreed to come out of semi-retirement partly because Hammer had taken her sightseeing in Jerusalem years earlier during a tour where she was backed by Hammer's band.
FAQs
Who is Dov Hammer?
Dov Hammer is an American-born harmonica player and singer who moved to Israel at a young age. He has been a leading figure in the Israeli blues scene for nearly 30 years, releasing multiple albums and fronting various bands.
What defines Chicago Blues?
Chicago blues is a form of blues music that developed in Chicago as musicians migrated from the Mississippi Delta. It's characterized by the use of electric guitars, amplified harmonica, bass guitar, drums, and often piano, creating a more urban and powerful sound than earlier acoustic blues.
What is the new album called?
The album is titled *Exile – The Chicago Blues Sessions*.
Key Takeaways
Cross-Cultural Connection:: The album serves as a testament to how music like the blues can bridge geographical and cultural divides.
Authenticity in Music:: Experience the genuine sound of Chicago blues captured through collaboration between an Israeli artist and Chicago legends.
Artistic Dedication:: Hammer's journey highlights the passion and perseverance involved in realizing long-held artistic dreams.
Discussion
What are your favorite blues artists, classic or contemporary? Have you had a chance to listen to Dov Hammer's music?
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Sources & References
Source 1: From Chicago to Tel Aviv and back: Dov Hammer and his harmonica record some blues in the Windy City target="_blank"
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