Luther Allison
Hand Me Down My Moonshine
(Ruf Records 51416 1413 2)
I can sum this release up in two words:
"Dynamically subtle." This all acoustic album has all of the textures of an
incredible blues landscape; all of the honest syncopation of a resonating heartbeat. By
abandoning electricity, Allison conjures a sound steeped in past, and yet, uniquely his
own. Joining him on this acoustic expedition, Allison's son Bernard demonstrates an
intricate, understated ability to utilize the delicacies of the medium; the echoes, the
sustained cadence, the vibrato of the strings as they play. Luther Allison played with
many of the greats: Jimmy Dawkins, Magic Slim, Magic Sam...He released his first album in
the late 60's and then headed up some sessions with Motown. During the 80's Allison moved
to Paris (France not Texas) where he had great success and a major fan following. In 1994,
with the release of a new album, Allison brought himself to the top of the American Blues
ladder of fame and fortune. Unfortunately, at the very pinnacle of success, he passed away
in 1997. Often characterized as having a "reckless" almost out of control
electric guitar style, Allison introduces us to a different side of his abilities on this
CD. The sound is hard driving, raw, yet so expressive and emotive. It's a captivating
listen; the digital really picks up some of the audio nuances. The performances evoke the
sense of deep roots, but at the same time transcend history and take us into new
territory. Check out the quiet, slow burning fire of the track, "Lightning
Bolt;" eight minutes of subdued, yet superb jam. If you have a hunger for an out of
this world collection of truly inspired blues sans electronic distortion or interference,
you couldn't go wrong with this CD. If you are a Luther Allison fan longing for more of
his music, this release will make you very happy and show you a different side of this
incredible artist.
- Bill
Fountain -
Southwest Blues CD Review - February 1999
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1999 Reviews - available at our store
