Live Cactus

 (6 customer reviews)

Having been in the audience when this was recorded, I am more than thrilled to have this recording of an event that lives in my memory as one of the most satisfying evenings of live music I have ever experienced.
The duet of Joe Ely and Joel Guzman is supremely harmonious in its skillful rendition of original songs that appeal to the heart of this West Texan. Bravo, Joe. Bravo, Joel.

I'm a huge Joe Ely fan and this is yet another album that does not disappoint. While most of the songs can be found on other albums, the addition of Joel Guzman gives each one a wonderful new twist. I recently saw Joe and Joel live and you just can't beat this stuff!

The first time I saw Joe Ely and Joel Guzman was at the Tribeca Rock 'n Roll Club in New York City. I did not know what to expect. What I got was pure magic and an evening of music I will never forget. This CD has been a long time coming for me. Joe has played with a lot of great musicians over the years, including the Flatlanders with whom he creates another kind of magic. But Ely and Guzman together bring a whole different dynamic to the music they play. It is as if they are one in spirit and vision as they invite the audience into that circle with them. Each seems to challenge the other to reach deep down until they get to a place where there is nothing but pure musical bliss. This CD gives you a glimpse of that. If you are lucky enough to have seen them together, no explanation is necessary. If not, pick this up and hear for yourself.