Koko Taylor knows the way

I am a recent and fervent convert to the cult of Koko Taylor. She is magnificent. Koko Taylor is the personification of confidence and affirmations to live life to the fullest. In her songs of lamentation for a love affair gone wrong there is resolve and ultimately, triumph. She is Koko Taylor, she sings the Blues, and you are better for having basked in the glory of her down-home, rock-steady vocals. There is no retreat and there is no surrender when with Koko Taylor. If the spirit of Koko and the band hits you just the right way, where and when you need it, there is transcendence. In my understanding of Koko Taylor’s music right now, her songs give me the sense of a glorious summer gathering. It is late in the day, the sun is still shining with vigor and a light breeze is rustling the leaves of the shade trees. There is talk and laughter and the hint of the unexpected in the air. Libations are in hand. Good friends are in the midst of reverie. As of my baptism in the healing waters of Koko Taylor Chicago Blues, these are my favorite songs so far: