The Other Side of E.C. Scott

The following review appeared in the December 2003-January 2004 DC Blues Calendar. This was several years after she appeared at the 1997 DC Blues Festival where she gave a wonderful performance. I likely received a review copy from the label or a publicist, but may have purchased it. This is still available.

Some will remember E.C. Scott’s wonderful performance at the D.C. Blues Festival several years ago. She was on Blind Pig and had some memorable recordings but her latest, The Other Side of Me, is on Black Bud Records. Produced by Ms. Scott and Larry Batiste, the disc finds the singer in fine form backed by her tight band Smoke. The great Little Milton joins her for a couple of duets bringing his distinctive guitar along with solid vocals. 

Most of the songs are Scott-penned originals (many co-written with Mr. Batiste) that include a down-in-the-alley blues of Money, the wit of That’ll Do Man, or the soulful funk of Call Me where she tells her man to call her when he needs loving. The duets with Milton are quite nice as is one of the few ‘covers,’ the strong rendition of People Get Ready that showcases her gospel roots and sports a strong guitar solo from guest guitarist Vernon ‘Ice’ Black. The studio playing is consistently strong and E.C. Scott sings with subtlety, control and power. 

She can fill a room with her vocals but never comes across as bombastic. She is quite a singer. The Other Side of Me brings together a varied program of first-rate blues and soul performances that should hopefully lead her to receive popular recognition to go along with her talent and performances. 

Here is E.C. Scott & Smoke in performance.