Otis Rush - Live in Boston, 1973

by Carl Bookstein

published: 6 / 8 / 2019

Carl Bookstein finds Chicago Blues guitar great Otis Rush's 'Live in Boston' album which was recorded in 1973 captures him in fine form.

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Otis Rush was perhaps a somewhat lesser known name among the legends that came out of Chicago Blues and its storied history. But his unique electric guitar playing demonstrates a perfection with his touch and feel of the instrument. Rush passed away September 29th of 2018. 'Otis Rush: Live in Boston, April 1973' leaves behind a worthy document, a testament to his talent. Rush, a skillful guitarist, influenced many British greats from Peter Green to Jeff Beck to Jimmy Page. Rush is also an emotive singer. 'Watermelon Man' starts out the concert with stinging electric guitar by Rush, who is in the zone, finding the feel. It is a first rate instrumental with the whole band just humming. The effect is beautiful and flowing. 'It Takes a Little Time' features Rush singing about what it means to be alone. The guitar licks are not rushed but intense, demonstrating a great sense of timing. Rush made the archtypical bluesman’s journey from work in the cotton fields in Mississippi, the child of a sharecropping family who knew poverty, to Chicago in the early 1950s. 'I Can’t Quit You Baby' is an iconic song, later recorded by the likes of Led Zeppelin. “My love for you I will never hide,” Rush sings, “You know you’re my desire.” Rush’s guitar licks pierce the soul. Sure enough, it is the blues. A sweet tenor saxophone part lends accompaniment. Next is “a little thing called 'Keep Loving Me Baby,'” rollicking in its momentum. 'Popcorn' is a percolating instrumental, with more resonant guitar and evocative saxophone. The lyric of 'Why I Sing The Blues' is distinct. “Everybody wants to know why I sing the blues/I’ve been around a long time/I really have paid some dues.” 'Please Love Me' is again fine flowing guitar, soothing in its sway. 'Everything’s Gonna Work Out Fine' is perhaps my favorite track on the album, with almost a Jamaican reggae like beat, and a lovely bounce to the rhythm. 'Please Please Please' is the fine finale. “Darling please don’t go/I love you so,” Rush sings. The effect is soulful and heartfelt, a worthy conclusion to a strong live recording. Otis Rush deserves to be remembered.