Waits and measures

>> Bluesman John Hammond tackles another legend

by JOHNSON CUMMINS

Legendary bluesman John Hammond doesn't need to hide behind anyone's shadow or ride on anyone's coattails. Although he's been a sideman to the greats, Hammond's subdued voice and swampy blues can easily stand on their own.

With his recent CD Wicked Grin, Hammond keeps us guessing by performing 13 songs originally penned by Tom Waits. Waits more than gives his blessing by also sitting in the producer's chair for the session. Wait's original versions of classics like "Heart Attack and Vine," "Shore Leave" and "Jockey Full of Bourbon" always had the foundation of blues, but when Hammond gets behind them they go straight for the guts of blues with harps squealing and a primitive guitar being fiercely plucked.

"I've been a friend of Tom's for years," says Hammond, "so when I had the chance to record with him I jumped at it. I think they are great songs and I had this amazing chance to do something different while still inspiring myself."

Hammond was obviously not comfortable with his label or management suggesting which Waits classics to record and handpicked the songs for the record himself. "I've always admired Tom but I would not be as familiar with a lot of material had I not done this record. It was really an adventure going through those songs. I was basically discovering all of these gems, as well as having Tom give a lot of inspiration, to the point of even playing guitar on a lot of the record. In the end I had to be able to see myself being able to play the songs and I just jumped inside all of these songs."

Another person Hammond has a lot of admiration for is the late, great John Lee Hooker, whom Hammond was lucky enough to work with on several occasions. Considering Hooker's recent passing, I asked Hammond if he had any thoughts on this incredible blues legend. "I'm awed by him. I feel very blessed that I knew him and that he has inspired me so much. He was a unique person who always had his own vision. He has passed through the physical world but he exists spiritually forever. He is one of the masters."

At the Spectrum on Friday, July 6, 6pm, $32.50