Ellis Hooks, Godson of Soul, Hamer Player?

[Guitarseh]

In Wednesday's Washington Post, they had a pic of him with what looked like an Artist (shot didn't show the headstock, of course.) Here's a quote:

"Ellis Hooks, Claiming His Soul Birthright

By Bill Friskics-Warren

Special to The Washington Post

Wednesday, August 10, 2005; Page C05

Had Ellis Hooks released "Godson of Soul" during the 1980s, the album's funky, down-home music and profusion of sweaty pleading and testifying likely would have been described as "neo-soul." Today, however, that appellation means something more urban and of the moment. At this point, Hooks's 21st-century update of the rock and soul of Otis Redding, Van Morrison and Solomon Burke might strike some people as unfashionable or retro. In fact, though, the urgent singing and playing on Hooks's second U.S. release (his third album overall) is ageless, a case of an artist revivifying a musical vernacular that he loves and for which he has an undeniable affinity."

Sounds pretty cool, but I've never heard his stuff.

MarkB

[BTMN]

Looks like a Hamer player to me.

[Jon_Press]

I don't know if Ellis stills plays Hamers, but I know his guitarist definitely does.

Tommy Williams, who has been a Hamer guy since the '80's, is his new guitarist. Tommy just got back from a short European tour with Ellis. Also on the gig were Muzz who played bass in Living Colour with Hamer guy Vernon Reid and Leroy - I can't remember his last name - who recently was playing drums with Steely Dan.

BTW, Tommy and his wife Holliann LaRocca (who many of you know as the lady with the cookies - sorry perverts and newbies who don't get the reference but that is not a metaphor) are expecting the birth of their first child any moment now. All good thoughts and prayers will be very much appreciated.