Album Reviews

This obscure little 1967 instrumental gem rescued from the dustbins of antiquity by Sundazed featuring guitarist Earl Hooker backed by an anonymous group of musicians including a drummer, bassist, organist, sax player and perhaps a rhythm guitarist, or Hooker’s overdubbing himself, is nothing more than a series of funky jams that show off Hooker’s unique curlicue guitar twanging style.

Think of Goldie Hawn in a bikini on “Laugh In” and you’ve got the vibe (if you’re old enough to remember!) on some tracks. When Hooker’s inspired, he combines southern barbecue licks with Telstar outer space shots launched from the netherworld upper reaches of his fretboard, aided by the engineer who turns up the reverb at opportune moments.

When Hooker’s coasting, it’s pure Chuck Berry-style chicken scratch and not particularly interesting, but when he’s on, the unexpected licks keep coming, combined with plenty of humor. Hooker makes his guitar talk and it’s got plenty to say. At times his fluid drive makes it sound as if he’s playing pedal steel, which he’s not.

The backing trio is strictly bar band, heavy on the noodling and their by now familiar riffs don’t hold much attention. It’s strictly Hookers juicy, wet guitar holding sway.

The mix pans what may be a four track (max) recording mostly left/right. What it lacks spatially is more than made up for by the recording’s clarity, transparency and intimacy. They rarely do snares and cymbals anymore as honestly as you get here, though the hi-fi is strictly lo-fi.

While this record may be of greater interest to guitarists and collectors, it’s an appealing period piece that’s worth mentioning. Quentin Tarantino might find it useful in a movie and it makes great party background music too.