John Littlejohn – Slidin’ Home / Arhoolie CD-9019

Description

CD 9019

“Back in 1968 I told Buddy Guy who was playing in a Berkeley club that I was interested in recording his favorite neglected giants of Chicago Blues. I had met Buddy in Europe while touring with the American Folk Blues Festival and found him to be a tasteful and exciting player (and one of the nicest people I ever met). Buddy’s prompt response was: Earl Hooker and John Littlejohn! So with the help of co-producer Willie Dixon here is John’s best session!” ‚ Chris Strachwitz

John Littlejohn (Funchess) – vocals and guitar; Monroe Jones Jr. – rhythm guitar; Alvin Nichols – bass; Robert Pulliam – tenor; Willie Young – tenor; Booker Sidgrave – drums. Produced by Chris Strachwitz & Willie Dixon. Recorded at Universal Studios – Chicago IL November 14 1968.

1. What In The World You Goin’ To Do
2. Treat Me Wrong
3. Catfish Blues
4. Kiddeo
5. Slidin’ Home
6. Dream
7. Reelin’ And Rockin’
8. Been Around The World
9. How Much More Long
10. Shake Your Money Maker
11. I’m Tired
12. Nowhere To Lay My Head

“This one’s been a favorite of mine since I bought it from Southern Record Sales back in the early 1970s [referring to the previous LP issue].  John’s blues are of Chicago via Mississippi and his influences run from Muddy and Elmore to B.B..  When he does lift from others he puts his own stamp on it.  Check out his splendid version of Brook Benton’s ‘Kiddeo’ and you’ll see what I mean.  When John plays slide guitar he plays with taste and emotion and doesn’t just broomdust away endlessly.  He’s also a capable songwriter as ‘Treat Me Wrong ’ ‘Been Around the World’ and ‘I’m Tired’ demonstrate.  On every track the tenor saxes rift softly while drums and bass lay down a solid beat.  Throughout John’s guitar rings and cries – they just don’t play solos like this any more.  One of the best electric blues albums of all time you won’t regret purchasing this mid-line classic.”

– Jeff Hannusch offBEAT