‘Do the Hip Shake’.

Band members have been looking at this particular track. I really like it but it is a little more elusive than I originally thought it might have been.

The original is by Slim Harpo; it has all the Harpo trademark qualities, in that the lyrics are relatively simple, there are no hidden depths or profound messages in there, it’s pure hedonism, sheer indulgence.  In most versions and covers there’s a rattling, rapid fire drum intro and an equally fast harp riff. But it is the alternative versions and interpretations that make it elusive.

Th’ Shack Shakers Rockabilly version is a strong energetic piece. I found a live version on Youtube which I found great to listen to, but painful to watch. The front man’s antics were totally cringeworthy; stripping his shirt off and (I kid you not) ostentatiously picking fluff out of his navel and then shoving his hand down his pants! But I did like the song.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vTBIWLvR8c8

Son of Dave version is also a winner.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rrUyVE-iyzg

New Mic.

It was inevitable, I had to get a proper mic.

I have just bought a Superlux D112/C harmonica mic. I was struggling of the bog standard vocal mic and wanted something to give me ‘the sound’. The Superlux is not in the same price brand as the Shure or the Shaker mic but I have to say I am impressed.

As I mentioned before I have a soft spot for good design. For me the Superlux ticks many of the boxes. Before I get on to the functionality I must say the look and the feel of the mic is just right. One website reviewer commented that the all metal body made it heavy, I would disagree; it feels pleasingly substantial in the hands, like a real piece of kit. The finger grooves in the top suggest to me that the designers gave some thought to usability and it is the right size for cupping.

There is a volume knob fitted into a recess in the body of the mic, this gives an additional control element, although it is quite easy to accidentally knock the settings, but I suppose that comes with practice.

The cable is fixed to the body; I can think of certain advantages, but the disadvantages are minimal.

The sound difference between this mic and the bog standard mic is considerable. There is a deeper tone and resonance, closer to the Little Walter sound (although the playing is nowhere near).

In all, a good purchase.