The Winnipeg bluesman delivers the goods once again on his latest studio album.
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Underrated Blues Legend
At the age of 71, Big Dave McLean continues to prove his prowess in the blues genre, despite being underrated. With a career spanning five decades, McLean’s latest album, This Old Life, showcases his exceptional talents as a singer, harmonica player, and guitarist.
The Album: This Old Life
This Old Life features a 14-song collection of classic blues tracks, including covers of songs by renowned artists like Willie Dixon and Muddy Waters, along with original compositions by McLean. The album kicks off with the soulful track “Well, I Done Got Over It,” setting the tone for a journey through authentic blues music.
Recording Process
The album was recorded in just four days at The Ganaraska Recording Co. in Cobourg, Ont., using vintage instruments and equipment to maintain a traditional blues sound. Most tracks were recorded in a single take, capturing the raw essence of McLean’s performance.
Accolades and Achievements
Throughout his career, McLean has received recognition for his contributions to the blues scene, including Juno nominations and awards, a Western Canadian Music Award, and a Lifetime Achievement Award from the Toronto Blues Society. In 2019, he was honored with the Order of Canada for his mentorship and influence on fellow artists.