I've put off writing about the recent posthumous release from Dr. John for no other reason than laziness. I've been enjoying the hell out of it for the last month, finding something new to savor with each spin. Records that are finished after the death of the artist can be hit and miss, but all involved with "Things Happen That Way" seemed to know just what to do to make this record play so cohesively, even if the reports about problems within the estate say otherwise.
But I do have one problem.
Why the hell is this being touted as a country record?
All of the PR prior and all of the reviews after its release, all refer to it as Dr. John's country album.
Did anyone listen to it, or did they just see a couple of Hank Williams tunes and an appearance by Willie Nelson and decide, "Okay. Must be country."
This record is pure Dr. John, New Orleans grease that would not sound out of place next to "Gris Gris" or "Gumbo." With the exception of "I'm So Lonesome I Could Cry," arranged in 3/4 time with some tinkling piano that would make Floyd Cramer proud, the rest of the country songs that are covered have that sinister vibe and subtle voodoo funk of Mac's most iconic work. Calling this a country record is even lazier than me waiting a month to whine about it. It is misleading and could very well put off those not wanting to hear The Night Tripper as George Jones. I know I wasn't so eager at first.
That said, "Things Happen That Way" is a fantastic last word from a New Orleans legend. It is not a country record. It's a Dr. John record. A damn good Dr. John record.
6 comments:
A REALLY GOOD record!
I was going to suggest my favorite cut but when I got to about six of the ten figured there was no point! Just listen to the whole thing.
We can discuss the Country / Americana / Roots / Songbook / R&B / ... labeling another day.
Agree 1000%. I guess its still being touted as country because of the guest artists on the album and Rounder's obvious input. Its a great farewell performance from 2 NO artists: Dr. John and Carlo Nuccio.
thanks for turning me on to this. it's great
It's a wonderful album! I've enjoyed it every time I've played it. Definitely worth checking out for those of you on the fence.
- Paul in DK
I had forgotten all about this record being released - I'm awfully glad you're writing about it as it does sound like vintage Night Tripper.
Sometimes, lazy is okay... all in good time.
Randy
That's pretty funny, I doubt that the local country station will even give "I'm So Lonesome I Could Cry" a listen, and they certainly wouldn't play it even if they did listen to it.
It's a great album anyway.
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