Record Reviews

GREGG ALLMAN ~ LOW COUNTRY BLUES ROUNDER 8595 (Barcode: 011661859524) ~ USA ~ Blues-Rock Recorded: 2011 Released: 2011 Following en extended period of silence, which lasted for a decade and a half, legendary singer / organist Gregg AllmanFind albums by this artist released this, his 6th solo studio album, which is full of fantastic new arrangements of classic Blues (and some Rhythm And Blues) songs. Age and experience are evident here, as Allman really takes a very relaxed and laidback approach to this material, avoiding any attempts to imitate the Allman Brothers BandFind albums by this artist powerful sound and energetic approach in favor of this new and elegant attitude. His voice still in excellent form and amicable support from some exquisite players the overall result is simply heart melting. Every Blues lover will find these interpretations very interesting, as they combine a respectful treatment of the original tunes with innovative ideas. Produced by T Bone BurnettFind albums by this artist, who is considered as one of the top contemporary music producers, the album has a unique sound, which moves between small combo and a larger brass ensemble. A long list of great musicians participate, among them Dr. JohnFind albums by this artist (a.k.a. Mac RebennackFind albums by this artist) on piano. Most warmly recommended!

Updated: 02/01/2024Posted:

CD 1 Recommend To A Friend

GREGG ALLMAN ~ PLAYIN` UP A STORM POLYDOR 042283194229 (Barcode: 042283194229) ~ USA ~ Classic Rock Recorded: 1977 Released: 2001 This is a reissue / remaster of the 2nd solo album by the American keyboardist / vocalist / songwriter / bandleader Gregg AllmanFind albums by this artist, recorded following the breakup of the Allman Brothers BandFind albums by this artist in 1976. Allman is accompanied by his group and several studio musicians, including a brass and string section, all first rate players. The album presents nine tracks, three of which are Allman originals and one is co-composed with Dr. JohnFind albums by this artist (a.k.a. Mac RebennackFind albums by this artist), who also plays on the album. The rest of the tracks are interpretations of songs by other songwriters. The album is excellent from start to finish, with beautiful songs, brilliantly performed and sung, with lush instrumental arrangements. Full of Blues, Soul and even quite a few swinging Jazzy moments, it is a timeless joy and a proper follow up to the debut album released four years earlier. It is, however, again quite different from what most ABB fans expected it to be, and was received mostly with mix feelings at the time. Listening to it today truly depicts Gregg’s full talent as a songwriter and performer, which stands the test of time without a hitch. Overall, this is a timeless piece of music, which presents the softer side of the Southern Rock image, which Allman Brothers Band presented during their epic live concerts. Gregg was undoubtedly one of the best American Rock vocalists and a sublime keyboardist, all of which is fully documented on this album, which is an absolute must in any decent Rock record collection. Not to be missed!

Updated: 18/07/2024Posted: 18/07/2024

CD 1 Remastered Recommend To A Friend

DR. JOHN ~ AFTERGLOW BLUE THUMB 7000 (Barcode: 011105700023) ~ USA ~ Big Band Jazz Recorded: 1995 Released: 1995 This is a lovely and sadly little known album by iconic American singer / pianist / songwriter / bandleader Dr. JohnFind albums by this artist (a.k.a. Mac RebennackFind albums by this artist), recorded with a full Jazz Big Band / Orchestra. The album presents ten songs, seven of which are American Songbook standards and three are his own songs. The album was produced by the legendary producer Tommy LiPumaFind albums by this artist and the songs were arranged and conducted by John ClaytonFind albums by this artist. The instrumentalists include guitarist Phil UpchurchFind albums by this artist, bassist Ray BrownFind albums by this artist, drummer Jeff HamiltonFind albums by this artist and other renown Jazz players. The beautiful idiosyncratic voice, piano playing and general attitude of Dr. John work absolutely perfectly with the Big Band arrangements, and the resulting music works as if it was initially created exactly for this unique setting. Overall, this is a little hidden gem of American music, which deserves to be remembered and a lot can be learned from it, how to combine cross-genre musical sources to create a perfect amalgam, which is simply everlasting. Blues, Soul and vocal Jazz enthusiasts should love this album to bits!

Updated: 05/10/2022Posted: 05/10/2022

CD 1 Recommend To A Friend

DR. JOHN ~ ANUTHA ZONE VIRGIN 724384621827 (Barcode: 724384621827) ~ USA ~ Jazz-Pop Fusion Recorded: 1998 Released: 1998 This is the 21st studio album by iconic American singer / keyboardist / songwriter / bandleader Dr. JohnFind albums by this artist (a.k.a. Mac RebennackFind albums by this artist), recorded in New York and London with his regular band consisting of guitarist Bobby BroomFind albums by this artist, bassist David BarardFind albums by this artist and drummer Herman Ernest IIIFind albums by this artist and many additional guest musicians, including Paul WellerFind albums by this artist. The album presents fourteen songs, which were mostly written by Dr. John or co-written with his wife Cat YellenFind albums by this artist, except one song by John MartynFind albums by this artist. Stylistically this album returns to the early days of Dr. John with his New Orleans idiosyncrasies, Mardi Gras, Voodoo, etc. perfectly combined with Jazzy arrangements. The beautiful throaty voice, keyboards playing and general attitude of Dr. John are absolutely perfectly for these the Funky, Blues soaked, Boogie songs, and are a proof of his enormous talent. Listening to this album is one great thrill from start to finish, and the organ parts are simply delicious. Overall, this is a little hidden gem of American music, which deserves to be remembered and a lot can be learned from it about how to combine cross-genre musical sources to create a perfect amalgam, which is simply everlasting. Blues, Soul and vocal Jazz enthusiasts should love this album to bits!

Updated: 18/10/2023Posted: 18/10/2023

CD 1 Recommend To A Friend

DR. JOHN ~ BIG BAND VOODOO ORANGE MUSIC 762183509823 (Barcode: 762183509823) ~ USA ~ Jazz-Pop Fusion Recorded: 1995 Released: 2019 This is a lovely and sadly little known album by iconic American singer / pianist / songwriter / bandleader Dr. JohnFind albums by this artist (a.k.a. Mac RebennackFind albums by this artist), recorded in Germany with the magnificent German WDR Big BandFind albums by this artist. It is a companion release to the brilliant “AfterglowFind albums with this title” album, recorded a few months earlier with an American Big Band. The album presents sixteen songs, a mixture of American Songbook standards and his own songs arranged by John ClaytonFind albums by this artist. Several songs appear on both these albums. This album was released posthumously, soon after the sadly premature departure of one of American greatest musical talents. The beautiful idiosyncratic voice, piano playing and general attitude of Dr. John work absolutely perfectly with the Big Band arrangements, and the resulting music works as if it was initially created exactly for this unique setting. For Big Band lovers the comparison between this album and “Afterglow” brilliantly exemplifies the difference between the American and European Big Band approach, especially the European sophistication and ensemble sound, which leaves the American Big Bands far behind. WDR Big Band is one of the best Big Bands in the world and their magnificent flexibility is truly astounding. Overall, this is a little hidden gem of American music, which deserves to be remembered and a lot can be learned from it, how to combine cross-genre musical sources to create a perfect amalgam, which is simply everlasting. Blues, Soul and vocal Jazz enthusiasts should love this album to bits!

Updated: 25/10/2022Posted: 25/10/2022

CD 1 Digipak Recommend To A Friend

DR. JOHN ~ DUKE ELEGANT BLUE NOTE 724352322022 (Barcode: 724352322022) ~ USA ~ Jazz-Pop Fusion Recorded: 1999 Released: 2000 This is the 22nd studio album by iconic American singer / keyboardist / songwriter / bandleader Dr. JohnFind albums by this artist (a.k.a. Mac RebennackFind albums by this artist), recorded in a quartet setting with guitarist Bobby BroomFind albums by this artist, bassist David BarardFind albums by this artist and drummer Herman Ernest IIIFind albums by this artist. Dr. John plays the Hammond B3 organ and piano. Saxophonist Ronnie CuberFind albums by this artist and percussionist Cyro BaptistaFind albums by this artist guest on selected tracks. The album presents twelve songs, which as the title suggests, were all written by Duke EllingtonFind albums by this artist and are all known as Jazz standards, but get here a completely unique treatment. It is his first album released on the Blue NoteFind albums on this label label. The beautiful idiosyncratic voice, keyboards playing and general attitude of Dr. John work absolutely perfectly transforming these Jazz standards into the Funky, Blues soaked, Boogie songs, and are a proof of his enormous talent. Listening to this album is one great thrill from start to finish, and the organ parts are simply delicious. Overall, this is a little hidden gem of American music, which deserves to be remembered and a lot can be learned from it about how to combine cross-genre musical sources to create a perfect amalgam, which is simply everlasting. Blues, Soul and vocal Jazz enthusiasts should love this album to bits!

Updated: 24/10/2023Posted: 19/08/2023

CD 1 Recommend To A Friend

DR. JOHN ~ IN A SENTIMENTAL MOOD MUSIC ON CD 13505 (Barcode: 8718627225905) ~ USA ~ Jazz-Pop Fusion Recorded: 1989 Released: 2018 This is a reissue of the 12th studio album by iconic American singer / keyboardist / songwriter / bandleader Dr. JohnFind albums by this artist (a.k.a. Mac RebennackFind albums by this artist), recorded with an impressive cast of American Jazz musicians, including bassist Marcus MillerFind albums by this artist, guitarist Hugh McCrackenFind albums by this artist, drummer Harvey MasonFind albums by this artist and others, and string and brass sections. The horn and string arrangements were done by the legendary Marty PaichFind albums by this artist and the album was produced by no less legendary producer Tommy LiPumaFind albums by this artist. As the album’s title suggests, it presents nine popular love songs, most of which are Jazz standards. Dr. John is undoubtedly a superb interpreter of Jazz (and Pop) standards. His beautiful throaty voice, keyboards playing and highly aesthetic approach are absolutely perfect and his affinity to Jazz results in creating superb cross-genre albums, like this one. He has very few competitors in this particular niche, which he repeatedly proved over the years. Overall, this is a little hidden gem of American music, which deserves to be remembered and a lot can be learned from it about how to combine cross-genre musical sources to create a perfect amalgam, which is simply everlasting. Vocal Jazz enthusiasts should love this album to bits!

Updated: 20/10/2023Posted: 20/10/2023

CD 1 Recommend To A Friend

DR. JOHN ~ LIVE IN EUROPE 1995 SALVO 035 (Barcode: 698458063526) ~ USA ~ Jazz-Pop Fusion Recorded: 1995 Released: 2014 This is a live album by iconic American singer / keyboardist / songwriter / bandleader Dr. JohnFind albums by this artist (a.k.a. Mac RebennackFind albums by this artist), recorded at the Montreux Jazz Festival with his regular band consisting of guitarist Bobby BroomFind albums by this artist, bassist David BarardFind albums by this artist, drummer Herman Ernest IIIFind albums by this artist, percussionist Smiley RicksFind albums by this artist and a brass section comprising of trumpeter Charlie MillerFind albums by this artist, saxophonist Alvin Red TylerFind albums by this artist and baritone saxophonist Ronnie CuberFind albums by this artist. The CD album presents eleven tracks, and the accompanying DVD includes the CD contents and two additional tracks. The music includes a selection of Dr. John originals and Jazz / Pop standards, with Jazz oriented arrangements. The beautiful throaty voice, keyboards playing and general attitude of Dr. John are absolutely perfect for these Funky songs, and the live performances are full of energy and vigor. Listening to this album is one great thrill from start to finish, and the piano parts are simply delicious. Dr. John is one of the best live performers out there. Overall, this is a little hidden gem of American music, which deserves to be remembered and a lot can be learned from it about how to combine cross-genre musical sources to create a perfect amalgam, which is simply everlasting. Blues, Soul and vocal Jazz enthusiasts should love this album to bits!

Updated: 22/10/2023Posted: 22/10/2023

CD+DVD 2 Digipak Recommend To A Friend

DR. JOHN ~ N`AWLINZ DIS DAT OR D`UDDA BLUE NOTE 724357860222 (Barcode: 724357860222) ~ USA ~ Jazz-Pop Fusion Recorded: 2004 Released: 2004 This is the 24th studio album by iconic American singer / keyboardist / songwriter / bandleader Dr. JohnFind albums by this artist (a.k.a. Mac RebennackFind albums by this artist), recorded in New Orleans with a huge group of guest musicians, strings and brass arrangements, choirs, etc. The album presents eighteen tracks, some original songs by Dr. John and arrangements of traditional songs and contributions by others. It is his third album released on the Blue NoteFind albums on this label label. Stylistically this album plays tribute to the New Orleans musical roots and traditions, with an emphasis on drums and rhythmic elements in that music. It spans many genres, including Gospel, Blues, Voodoo and of course Jazz and it is one of the most elaborate and diverse albums Dr. John ever recorded, proving again that he is one of America’s most talented musicians of all time. Overall, this is a hidden gem of American music, which deserves to be remembered and a lot can be learned from it about how to combine cross-genre musical sources to create a perfect amalgam, which is simply everlasting. Blues, Soul and vocal Jazz enthusiasts should love this album to bits!

Updated: 24/10/2023Posted: 24/10/2023

CD 1 Recommend To A Friend

DR. JOHN ~ ORIGINAL ALBUM SERIES RHINO 081227983673 (Barcode: 081227983673) ~ USA ~ Pop & Rock Recorded: 1968 - 1973 Released: 2009 This Box Set collects five of the first six albums recorded by the American vocalist / songwriter / pianist / guitarist Dr. JohnFind albums by this artist (a.k.a. Mac RebennackFind albums by this artist) and released between 1968 and 1973. The decision to skip the third album (called "RemediesFind albums with this title") is completely beyond me. With a wonderful throaty voice and a superb musical sensitivity Dr. John firmly established a position of one of the most original and influential American music personalities. Dr. John managed to create a unique musical amalgam by mixing his original New Orleans roots with Blues, Jazz, Rhythm And Blues and Soul. The first two albums in this set are both completely zany Psychedelic trips, so unusual and far-reaching that they are considered as milestones of alternative music to this very day. The remaining albums are much more conventional and present Dr. John establishing his more mainstream approach, which mixes his New Orleans influences (Zydeco) with Blues, Soul, Boogie Woogie and Rock, which characterize his career to this very day. In many respects Dr. John always was a musician´s musician, earning respect and admiration from many of his peers. This explains the fact that many legendary musicians take part in these recordings, including Eric ClaptonFind albums by this artist, Mick JaggerFind albums by this artist, Graham BondFind albums by this artist and many others. This Box Set is an excellent opportunity to get familiar with the Dr. John universe by those who managed to miss it until now, but also to revisit familiar ground by old fans, which don´t have these albums on CD. Warmly recommended! Side Note The "Original Album SeriesFind albums with this title" by Warner Bros.Find albums on this label, the "Original Album ClassicsFind albums with this title" by SonyFind albums on this label, the "5 Original AlbumsFind albums with this title" by UniversalFind albums on this label, the Box Sets by RhinoFind albums on this label and other similar releases are an archetypal example of how good intentions turn sour. Although these new editions often bring back to life some of the best music ever made on this planet, which in many cases has been lost in the tides of time and was unavailable on the market for ages, they suffer from an unforgivable disregard for the essence of cultural values and general sloppiness, contrary to human decency, which requires as to treat our Cultural Legacy with respect and loyalty. The Box Sets produced under these monikers have no discographical information whatsoever about the lineups, musician names, composers, lyricists, dates and places of recording, original release data and even basic copyright data (the last is strictly illegal BTW). Although the original LP sleeves are reproduced, they are often edited and information (which would be in most cases too small to be readable) is removed. Most importantly these Box Sets don't include any booklet offering a historical background and perspective about the Artists and the Music, which are extremely important and vital to the preservation of our Culture and passing the knowledge to the next generations. In short the fact that these Box Sets are meant to be inexpensive, does not mean that they have to be cheap. Considering the fact how many times this music has been sold over and over again by the labels, this is a crying shame!

Updated: 08/05/2023Posted:

CD 5 Mini-Sleeve Box Set Remastered Recommend To A Friend

DR. JOHN ~ SKE-DAT-DE-DAT: THE SPIRIT OF SATCH (LIMITED EDITION) LAST MUSIC 5052442013648 (Barcode: 5052442013648) ~ USA ~ Jazz-Pop Fusion Recorded: 2013 Released: 2020 This is the 32nd studio album by iconic American singer / keyboardist / songwriter / bandleader Dr. JohnFind albums by this artist (a.k.a. Mac RebennackFind albums by this artist), and the last album released during his lifetime and his penultimate album in total. This limited edition was released on the first anniversary of Dr. John’s passing. The album was recorded with a huge number of guest musicians, mostly from the Jazz scene, including trumpeters Terence BlanchardFind albums by this artist and Nicholas PaytonFind albums by this artist. As the title suggests, it is a tribute to the iconic American musician Louis ArmstrongFind albums by this artist and the thirteen tracks on this album are all associated with Armstrong’s repertoire. The album presents brilliant up to date arrangements of Armstrong’s classic songs, amalgamating all possible American musical styles, including the New Orleans musical roots and traditions, and spans many genres, including Gospel, Blues, Voodoo, Funk, Hip Hop and of course Jazz and it is one of the most elaborate and diverse albums Dr. John ever recorded, proving again that he was one of America’s most talented musicians of all time. His idiosyncratic vocals, piano playing, sense of humor and general approach to music remain as one of the most recognizable symbols of American music. Overall, this is another gem of American music, which deserves to be remembered and a lot can be learned from it about how to combine cross-genre musical sources to create a perfect amalgam, which is simply everlasting. Blues, Soul and vocal Jazz enthusiasts should love this album to bits, as I obviously do as well.

Updated: 30/05/2024Posted: 30/05/2024

CD 1 Slipcase Recommend To A Friend

DR. JOHN ~ THINGS HAPPEN THAT WAY ROUNDER 888072427433 (Barcode: 888072427433) ~ USA ~ Jazz-Pop Fusion Recorded: 2019 Released: 2022 This is the 33rd and final studio album by iconic American singer / keyboardist / songwriter / bandleader Dr. JohnFind albums by this artist (a.k.a. Mac RebennackFind albums by this artist), released posthumously. It was recorded in New Orleans with a huge group of musicians, with brass arrangements, choirs, etc. Willie NelsonFind albums by this artist and Aaron NevilleFind albums by this artist guest on vocals each on one track. The album presents ten tracks, four of which are original songs by Dr. John and the rest are by other songwriters. Stylistically this album plays tribute to Country Music, but amalgamates all possible American musical styles, including the New Orleans musical roots and traditions, and spans many genres, including Gospel, Blues, Voodoo and of course Jazz and it is one of the most elaborate and diverse albums Dr. John ever recorded, proving again that he was one of America’s most talented musicians of all time. His idiosyncratic vocals, piano playing, sense of humor and general approach to music remain as one of the most recognizable symbols of American music. Overall, this is another gem of American music, which deserves to be remembered and a lot can be learned from it about how to combine cross-genre musical sources to create a perfect amalgam, which is simply everlasting. Blues, Soul and vocal Jazz enthusiasts should love this album to bits, as I obviously do as well.

Updated: 09/02/2024Posted: 09/02/2024

CD 1 Mini-Sleeve Recommend To A Friend

DR. JOHN ~ TRIBAL 429 RECORDS 795041780324 (Barcode: 795041780324) ~ USA ~ Jazz-Pop Fusion Recorded: 2010 Released: 2010 This is the 30th studio album by iconic American singer / keyboardist / songwriter / bandleader Dr. JohnFind albums by this artist (a.k.a. Mac RebennackFind albums by this artist), and the second and last album with the band Lower 911Find albums by this artist, which included guitarist John FohlFind albums by this artist, bassist David BarardFind albums by this artist, drummer Herman Ernest IIIFind albums by this artist and percussionist Kenneth WilliamsFind albums by this artist. It was recorded in several studios with additional huge group of musicians, with brass arrangements, strings, backing vocals, etc. The album presents sixteen tracks, all of which are original songs by Dr. John. Stylistically this album amalgamates all possible American musical styles, including the New Orleans musical roots and traditions, and spans many genres, including Gospel, Blues, Voodoo and of course Jazz and it is one of the most elaborate and diverse albums Dr. John ever recorded, proving again that he was one of America’s most talented musicians of all time. His idiosyncratic vocals, piano playing, sense of humor and general approach to music remain as one of the most recognizable symbols of American music. Overall, this is another gem of American music, which deserves to be remembered and a lot can be learned from it about how to combine cross-genre musical sources to create a perfect amalgam, which is simply everlasting. Blues, Soul and vocal Jazz enthusiasts should love this album to bits, as I obviously do as well.

Updated: 10/05/2024Posted: 10/05/2024

CD 1 Mini-Sleeve Recommend To A Friend