by Peter Dawson

Created on: July 21, 2008

Juzzie Smith is a one-man band, a didjeridu player, a blower of blues harp and guitar picker... and he has released an earthy album called Happy Daze.

Juzzie is also a bloke with a big grin and a lust for life. With family in tow he traverses the land in a Coaster bus. Having honed his craft busking on the street, at markets and festivals, Smith generates a joyous energy with his music. "I believe music takes away worries and brings us together," he enthuses.

From the opening notes of 'Little Journey' Smith's expertise on blues harmonica is obvious. He is also a neat performer on guitar, banjo, didjeridu (or yidaki, as he likes to call it, from the Arnhemland Yolgnu people), percussion and Vietnamese jaw harp.

'Good Music' has a naive quality in its lyrics, a childlike zest. Tinny slide on dobro, soulful harmonica and a howling didjeridu all feature on 'Blow', while the blues feel continues on 'Weather'. 'Do Right' is Smith's moral in his music. The sliding lead break reinforces his world weary vocal, as does the blues harp solo. Tender is the guitar intro to 'Travelling', and the Eastern flavoured sound is driven by a rolling beat and accentuated by moody didj and harmonica. A great track to drive by on the long, long roads of Australia!
His family is not only very important to Smith, but he sees the whole of humanity as Family'. A philosophy delivered simply but sweetly, which is how it is on Living Together', his ode to his darling lady Shanny uncomplicated and full of charm.

With the instrumental Indilia' the guitar-work is distinctly Asian and Smith lets loose with some exotic throat singing while the didj adds the essential drone. Gum Tree' is like a traditional nursery rhyme, but not a nice tale for Play School, as it deals with the harsh things in life. Bluesberry Jam' came together during a quiet moment in the studio, a rollicking improvisation which has become a standard in Smith's repertoire.

Mother' is in tender tribute to Smith's mum, who died young and missed seeing her grandchildren and her son's burgeoning talent. Plaintive but full of positivity, Smith sings, "Your last words stay in my mind. They will resonate throughout my life. One last breath and you say Enjoy life'."

Grooving didj infused Living In Australia' and the gentle instrumental title track complete this fine hand-made product. The CD is complimented by an excellent DVD with some bright live performances, including Smith playing a mean harmonica with John Butler on Funky Tonight'. Smith's Happy Daze' will give you many happy days of music.

Learn more about this author, Peter Dawson.
Click here to send this author comments or questions.