Toshi Reagon: Have You Heard

Toshi Reagon CD Review

Folk blues goddess Toshi Reagon’s sixth album, her first on Ani DiFranco’s Righteous Babe’s label, might be the one to finally propel this talented musician/producer/songwriter into the mainstream spotlight.

Toshi Reagon is an Amazing Live Performer

To really experience Toshi, you must see her live. In concert she builds each song to a crescendo of guitar, bass and vocals that take you over until you have no choice but to tap your feet and groove along. This album comes close, but can’t match the energy of a live Toshi Reagon show.

The opening song “Have You Heard”. Toshi’s sweet voice calls for peace over a driving acoustic guitar and Catherine Russell’s back up vocals.

Diverse influence/Diverse Sound

Reagon, daughter of Sweet Honey in the Rock matriarch Bernice Johnson Reagon, has been influenced by diverse artists and genres. The opening electric guitar and bass line of “Building Blues” sounds like early Pink Floyd and “Down to the River” shows her gospel influence. Toshi even covers Elvis Presley’s “Heartbreak Hotel.”

Listen to Toshi’s album, but if you really want to experience this cute butch musical prodigy, and trust me-- you do--don’t miss the chance to see Toshi Reagon live in concert.