The plan going into
Phillip Walker
's first studio set in nearly a decade (since his last label,
Black Top
, went belly up) was to revisit some early influences that formed the bluesman's unique approach. Add a few similarly styled originals from producer/
Delta Groove
label honcho
Randy Chortkoff
and the results are a comeback of sorts for this classy and underappreciated journeyman guitarist, vocalist, and bandleader.
Walker
is no stranger to putting his personal stamp on others' songs -- his previous album was also predominantly covers -- but this one takes him back to his roots, as its title infers. He gets into a
John Lee Hooker
/New Orleans groove on
Frankie Lee Sims
'
"Walking with Frankie"
; slows things down on a swampy
"Sweet Home New Orleans"
with help from its writer,
Al Blake
, on harmonica; and strips the instrumentation to a core of harp, sparse drums, and tasty guitar for an emotional spin on
Lightnin' Hopkins
"Don't Think 'Cause You're Pretty."
He burns through
Lonesome Sundown
's shuffle
"Leave My Money Alone"
and gets lowdown with
Ray Charles
"Blackjack."
A backup band of talented vets lends support with a sympathetic vibe throughout. Established guitarist
Rusty Zinn
generally sticks to rhythm but takes lead duties on three tracks, including a peppy version of
Eddie Shaw
's
"Mean Mean Woman,"
where his more driving attack meshes nicely with
's subtler touch.
Jeff Turmes
' bass work, especially on standup, provides a sturdy yet flexible bottom that perfectly supports
's affable vocals and stylish guitar work.
sounds like he's having a blast, and you can practically see the smile on his face as he greets these songs like the old friends they are. The session gels with an effortless vibe like the finest blues discs, and shows just how vital
remains, especially with a sympathetic producer, classy material, and a great band behind him. ~ Hal Horowitz