New Jersey Stage 2016: Issue 1 | Page 63

Madam Mayhem is backed by a solid band which includes bassist extraordinaire Billy Sheehan who also manned the producer’s chair for the engaging Now You Know. Bad News Barnes has been entertaining folks with his unique brand of blues satire for over three decades. His 90 Proof Truth is overflowing with caustic commentary on contemporary issues. The first three tracks are prime examples of his witty word play in the tradition of Hokum styled blues. Bad News Barnes might endear himself to women declaring with horns that America not only needs a female president but a queen. “Salt Sugar and Fat” is a winsome warning about bad foods as he name checks product endorsers such as Tony the Tiger. “Post Op Transgender” is timely as is the rest of this bluesy album which tackles hard truths with humor. The last four covers are live re- Watch “Going Down” by Bad News Barnes NewJerseyStage.com 2016 - ISSUE 1 Table of Contents 63