Mose Allison Trio Keeps Feet Tapping at Blues Alley

Blues Alley is hosting the Mose Allison Trio through Sept. 19. The trio offers a mix of jazz and blues music with folksy and thoughtful lyrics. The veteran leader Mose Allison reverently sits as his piano, irreverently singing lyrics about hypocrisy in daily life. Catch him Saturday and Sunday for a well-spent evening.

The bassist played his instrument with vigor, digging into solo riffs and maneuvering the giant bass with incredible dexterity. The drummer started in a little too loud for the small space, but settled into familiar songs keeping the rhythm flowing and feet tapping.

The audience swayed in response to songs familiar and new. A classic "Everyone's Crying for Mercy" still rang true as Allison crooned, "Everybody's crying peace on earth ... just as soon as we win this war." The crowd softly laughed and nodded as the revered artist delivered several other bits of wisdom, accompanied by the lively piano and his now-gravelly voice.

Mose Allison's songs have been covered by artists including Van Morrison, The Who, The Clash, Eric Clapton, Elvis Costello and Bonnie Raitt. The singer/pianist/composer recently released a new album after 12 years of recording silence. The Way of the World is on Anti Records and was produced by Joe Henry. Tickets to Allison's Blues Alley show are $25 plus a$2.50 surcharge and a $10 minimum purchase at the venue.