Robert Ward (Born 15/10/1938)

Ward is an excellent example of the modern Blues form in today's musical setting. A man unafraid to mix up and develop his influences, he now records for the Black Top label after a decade or so in relative obscurity. One of Ward's clearest gifts is his originality - his guitar playing is unorthodox and constantly surprising and yet it's never used to superficial effect. And the overriding feeling you get from listening is one of warmth, passion and his love of his musical heritage. To the Primer it all adds up to an unusual and singular approach to the blues.

In the 60s he led the Ohio Untouchables and it was here that he first developed his use of the Magnatone amplifier, which created a vibrato effect to his playing and is still heard in his recordings today.
The music to be found on the Black Top CDs is a revelation - straight blues, ballads and gospel (the CD "Rhythm Of The People" features vocal contributions from his wife Roberta Ward), all held together with soulful and understated vocals, as well as excellent instrumentals with strong melody and jazz signatures.

Ward delivers a music which is both extremely moving and thoroughly enjoyable. "Fear No Evil", "Rhythm Of The People" and especially the Black Top release "Black Bottom>" should all be on your shopping list. They are all excellent and prove to any doubters out there that the Blues can go beyond the traditional 12 bar format and, in the right hands, survive and prosper in today's musical climate.

The Primer doesn't normally quote reviews, but just to emphasise the point, here's an extract from a Billboard review of "Fear No Evil" - "A sensational singer/guitarist. This superlative album is a deft mix of traditional Southern soul, deep blues and furious instrumental numbers. An essential album by a major rediscovery". So what are you waiting for - go and buy some!