Frank Catalano & Lurrie Bell reunite after almost 30 years to record a new album,’Set Me Free.’

Two legendary musicians, after many ups and downs, reunite after almost 30 years to record a new album,’“Set Me Free.’
​This recording is “Chicago Blues with a touch of Jazz at its very finest” – New City.

In 1995, two extraordinary musicians, Frank Catalano and Lurrie Bell, were signed to record deals by the legendary producer Bob Koester. Catalano was just 18 years old, while Bell was 36, and both were poised for remarkable careers.

Lurrie Bell, a true blues legend, was recently inducted into the Blues Hall of Fame in Memphis. His musical journey began at the age of 7, playing alongside his father, Carey Bell. Over the years, he shared the stage with blues icons like Muddy Waters, Howlin’ Wolf, and Willie Dixon, solidifying his place in blues history.

Frank Catalano’s path was equally impressive. He first played with his mentor Von Freeman at age 11, followed by performances with Pearl Bailey and Louie Bellson at 12, Miles Davis at 13, and Tony Bennett at 14. At 16, his career was skyrocketing, but a devastating car accident resulted in the loss of his right middle finger. Despite this setback, Catalano defied the odds, relearning his signature saxophone technique and continuing his musical ascent.

Bell's journey to stardom was marred by undiagnosed bipolar disorder and schizophrenia, leading to periods of homelessness and hardship. However, his resilience shone through, and in 2016, his album Can’t Shake This Feeling earned a Grammy nomination, reigniting his career.

Both artists have overcome immense challenges to become the celebrated musicians they are today. Their new album, Set Me Free, is a powerful testament to their shared passion for music and their gratitude for the lives they've rebuilt.

Catalano reflects, “I love improvising and feeling the vibrations of the music. When Downbeat Magazine called me ‘John Coltrane Energy for the 21st century,’ it was the greatest compliment ever. Music has the power to bring people together and heal. I’m honored that Lurrie wanted to record with me, and I think listeners will really enjoy our takes on ‘At Last’ and ‘Georgia on My Mind,’ alongside the blues standards and originals.”
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Bell adds, “The blues has been with me since I was 5 or 6 years old. It speaks to the facts of life. I wake up and hear the blues in my ear; it’s always with me.”
Now, Frank and Lurrie are excited to perform together live. You may have seen Frank featured with Los Lobos at the Chicago Blues Festival, at The Hollywood Bowl with The Smashing Pumpkins, or leading his own band at Birdland in New York. Their collaboration has also earned a Blues Blast Magazine nomination for best blues video. Stay tuned for more exciting news from this dynamic duo.
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Tracks:
01. Everyday I Have The Blues
02. TheTracks:
01. Everyday I Have The Blues
02. The Sky Is Crying
03. Set Me Free
04. Shakin’
05. Georgia On My Mind
06. una Town
07. I’m Ready
08. Kicking
09. At Last
 
Lurrie Bell: vocals, guitar
Frank Catalano: saxophone
Tom Vaitsas – piano
Aaron Mitter – bass
Kurt Lubbe – drums.
 
Recorded in February and March 2024 at Joy Ride Studio, Chicago and Blaise Barton was the main engineer (Pinetop Perkins, Otis Clay).