published: 3 /
7 /
2010
Label:
Proper Records
Format: CD
Unpredictable combination of jazz, funk and blues on new album from Dr John, which coincides with his half century of music making
Review
“Call me doc, your medicine man/I got a cure in the palm of my hand,” sings the rusty-voiced Dr. John. Currently celebrating a half century of music making, he’s back with his New Orleans stamped energy. Plans for touring the UK including appearances at the Glastonbury, Cornbury and The Hop Farm Fests, but his new record ‘Tribal’ will set his message in stone.
The ambitious album, co-produced by Dr. John and colleague Herman “Roscoe” Ernest III, who also contributes vocals and percussion, boasts talented key players; David Barard, bass and vocals, John Fohl, on guitar and Kenneth “Afro” Williams on percussion.
The iconic all-around arranger and musician Allen Toussaint contributed two originals and three were borrowed from the great Bobby Charles of ‘See You Later Alligator’ fame. The songwriting, across the board, is intelligent and pleasingly complex.
Dr. John has always promised his listeners a wild ride and the riveting piano licks, funky rhythms and nods to Creole voodoo offer no compromise. The ‘Jinxy Jinx’ is one of the most lyrically clever; alluding to bad luck ladders and lucky rabbit’s feet. ‘Whut’s Wit Dat’ is another joyous and humorous incantation.
Once you hit title song, ‘Tribal’, however, you’ll witness a “whazzup” moment. That’s where the musings of an actual Mardi Gras Indian chief stuns your senses. There’s nothing predictable about ‘Tribal.’ Dr. John’s voice imbues levity, an outstanding ear for nuance and an appreciation for everything from jazz, funk and blues.
But, everything Dr. John does, makes a riveting musical statement and ‘Tribal’ is no different. Chase it down with a strong dose of something strong and delicious.
Track Listing:-
1
Feel Good Music
2
Lissen At Our Prayer
3
Big Gap
4
Change Of Heart
5
When I'm Right, I'm Wrong
6
Jinky Jinx
7
Manoovas
8
Tribal
9
Music Came
10
Them
11
Only In Amerika
12
Whut's Wit Dat
13
Potnah
14
A Place In The Sun
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