Hard Bargain has been a solid blues band, they are a local favorite available for gigs and parties. Twice they were a 6th place runner-up for our Battle of The Bands competition. Rarely does a real R & B band come up with something original to say. Michael Cohen, producer and bassist, obviously sold himself to the devil to make this recording.

Opening with the title tune "More Than You Bargained For" co-written by Eric Williams, and Michael Cohen they set the tone for an impressive set. The sub-title and lyric "Listen Mr. Alligator" is aimed at none other than Bruce Iglauer of Alligator Records as they try to tell him that they've arrived; and they have. "Ain't No Brakeman", written by Fontaine Brown was included on John Mayall's "Spinning Coin" album released back in 1995 and Hard Bargain does a great version here.

What follows is the first of three Jon and Sally Tiven authored tunes. John and Sally Tiven have produced and co-written with Wilson Pickett, Little Milton, and Ellis Hooks. Well Jon and Sally wrote these never released songs that appear here, but that seems to be the extent of their involvement. "If You Feel For Me" should be chosen for airplay, it's that good. The horn arrangement and Arthur Canady's vocal are both outstanding. "Just Got Back From Baby's" is from ZZ Top.

"Pop This Pill" is sub-titled the Viagra song, and it is damn right serious. Vocalist Arthur Canady wrote and sings this tribute song; he exceeds his range so to speak. This is another song that should receive a lot of "play". "Forget About It" is the other Arthur Canady original. "Who's Making Love?" is the Homer Banks classic that was a hit for Johnny Taylor. "Watch Dog" is an old Lonnie Brooks tune. "Too Weak To Fight" comes from Clarence Carter. "Birthday Blues" is another of the Jon and Sally Tiven authored songs, and the smoky, murky horn arrangements are perfect. "White Honey" comes from Graham Parker. "Sittin On A Time Bomb", is the third Jon and Sally Tiven authored tune and last on the album. It is a "topical" song.

Hard Bargain consists of Arthur Canady, lead vocals; Alan Grossinger, rhythm guitar; Michael Cohen, bass; Ron Duncan, drums; Rafik Cezanne, tenor saxophone; Dave Falcone, lead and slide guitars; Eric Williams, trumpet and horn arrangements; Bill Blend, keyboards; and Mike Corrado, alto saxophone. This is without a doubt the most improved local band I've heard this year and I believe this album should get them some attention and a bunch of gigs. Hard Bargain is much "More Than You Bargained For". More information on them is available at their website www.hardbargainblues.com. Be sure to catch them at Kenny's Castaways 157 Bleecker St, Greenwich Village on Friday January 13th, 2006.

Richard Ludmerer
Director, The New York Blues & Jazz Society
ricdale2@yahoo.com