Al Lerman (CD) ~ Live at The Acoustic Grill

Live at The Acoustic Grill.

AL LERMAN is a veteran bluesman with a highly personal style, able to move seamlessly through the windows of Country Blues, Chicago Blues, Soul Blues, Americana and New Orleans Blues. With a great knowledge of the blues tradition on both harmonica and guitar, he brings that sensibility to songs that are written about his own contemporary life and times. His soulful playing, blowing and singing coupled with his wry and thoughtful songwriting make him an engaging and hypnotic solo performer. He is considered among the top harmonica players in the country, and he has been heard on countless recordings and live sessions.

The blues bug hit at a young age when Al was taken to hear the famed duo of Sonny Terry & Brownie McGhee at Toronto’s iconic Riverboat coffeehouse. His interest in music skyrocketed, and over the years he saw the duo no less than forty times. He discovered many blues greats who were regularly touring through the city. Moving into his twenties while playing in local Toronto blues bands, Al sought out many of his musical heroes, seeking both advice and inspiration. He considers himself fortunate to have sat in with blues giants such as Muddy Waters, Willie Dixon, Koko Taylor, Sunnyland Slim, Albert Collins and many more. A long friendship ensued with Chicago harmonica player Carey Bell who mentored him on the instrument. Hearing him now, there is no doubt that he learned his lessons well. He has played this forward and continues to offer instructional harmonica workshops at festivals and music camps across the country.