Blues-rock guitar master Walter Trout’s story certainly makes for great blues-like topicality. After leaving New Jersey in 1973 and heading to Los Angeles, he played with Joe Tex, Canned Heat and John Mayall’s Bluesbreakers. “That’s Mount Everest,” the guitarist says of his time with Mayall. Then in 1989, Trout struck out on his own and has released 22 albums since. His latest for 2013, Luther’s Blues, is a tribute to his friend and blues legend Luther Allison.
Trout wails on “I’m Back,” opens the 13-song disc. “Cherry Red Wine” is a fine up-tempo blues with a notable Sammy Avila piano backing Trout’s bending. “Move From The Hood’ does just that…moves. It’s a fun organ-backed strut with Trout literally screaming his way round the fret board. And I’m really fond of “Big City” where Trout gets out his Hendrix groove on with incendiary wizardry.
“Chicago” is a funky number, but its Rick Knapp’s bass more than Trout that stands out. Meanwhile, Avila’s organ makes its presence known on the spectacular “Just As I Am” and “Pain In The Streets.” On the whole, you’re not going to get a better bunch of blues from a guitarist and his amazing band (there’s Michael Leasure on drums here, too), and no better tribute to the amazing Luther Allison. Luther’s Blues struts and pokes you just right – a fine chunk o’ the electric blues from the incomparable Walter Trout.
~ Ralph Greco, Jr.
