MUSIC REVIEW OF THE DAY: CURTIS SALGADO & ALAN HAGER - ROUGH CUT

Here's something very different for the very honoured blues man Salgado. Normally fronting a big band, this sees him joining long-time jamming buddy Hager for a mostly-duo disc, all stripped down to harp and acoustic guitar, with only occasional backing. It comes out of writing sessions the pair have been doing since Hager joined Salgado's main band, which found them exploring deep blues sounds.

In addition to six originals, the pair go back to classics and covers from the likes of Son House, Elmore James and Muddy Waters. Rather than slavishly emulating the originals, these are playful romps through much-loved numbers where they leave their own mark. "You Got To Move" gets a faster tempo and nifty slide from Hager. "Long Train Blues" is a 1929 classic from Robert Wilkins, and features great harp and guitar interplay.

Meantime, the duo's originals have the same spark. "Hell In A Handbasket" stars Delgado's playful piano and a lyric filled with laughs. "I Want My Dog To Live Longer (The Greatest Wish)" has the same light heart, and helps make this a thoroughly enjoyable set from two very able reborn Delta blues men.