Tweet

Album Details

• Artist: Willy Porter
• Album: High Wire Live
• Label: Six Degrees
• Year of Release: 2003
• ME Rating:
• Reviewed by: dscanland on 2003-12-18

Willy Porter is one of those musicians that I've listened to but probably not paid as much attention as he deserved. I've listened to his Falling Forward release and was fairly impressed but in the end, the album just fell wayside in my ever expanding CD collection and was never listened to again. Now, with High Wire Live on my desk, my mind goes back to that album and how impressive a songwriter Porter actually is. He's the kind of guy that people probably get fanatical about. In Canada, a few of these very same artists include Bruce Cockburn and Stephen Fearing. The guitar playing by Willy Porter is awesome too. The last track on this live collection, "Road Bone" is an awesome example of this. I stated on my review of Falling Forward that a live performance by Mr. Porter would be something to see (and hear). Obviously someone was listening and that's where the idea for High Wire Live comes from. The songs for this album have been culled from various performances of Willy's over his last 3 years of touring. He states that there is absolutely no studio trickery involved in these fine songs. I wouldn't doubt it because there is just too much soul in these songs. A track like "You Stay Here" cannot come from anyone. Songs like this are precisely thought out. There are moments when I'm even reminded a little of Eric Clapton such as the brilliant "Jesus On The Grille". Willy Porter may never see a huge audience but I'm sure that what he does get is devoted fans that will drive miles to see one of his performances. High Wire Live is a very nice and impressive live offering. I hope he comes to Calgary.

User Reviews and Comments

Log In or Register to Rate Albums