Katie Webster
Deluxe Edition
(ALCD5606)
It just doesn't
get any better than this. This CD is an exquisite introduction to the
amazing abilities of the one and only Swamp Boogie Queen. Ms. Webster's
keyboard pounding; ivory tickling compositions give new meaning to the
word "barrelhouse." Included are five tracks each from her 1988
Swamp Boogie Queen and the 1990 Two Fisted Mama, and three tracks from the
1991 release No Foolin'. There are also a few other previously unreleased
tracks for those of us who already own the previous albums.
"Best Of" collections often suffer from poor
choices or failed attempts to remix or change the very elements that made
the music work in the first place. Happily, this collection steers clear
of the pitfalls, concentrating on showcasing the incredible variety of
work from Webster. This release is a good representation of her talents.
Check out "C Q Boogie," Katie Webster at her finest, to get an
idea of the auditory onslaught manifested in her dazzling piano work. One
might think with all this talent in her fingertips that her voice wouldn't
measure up; per contra, Webster has a deep, soulful intensity to her
vocals that reverberates heartfelt emotions. Listen to her sorrowful tones
in the ballad "Never Let Me Go" or her skillful, sultry delivery
in "Try A Little Tenderness."
The unreleased tracks are interesting choices. Both
songs were left overs from previous albums, yet are still uniquely
Webster. "Hallelujah, I Love Him So" (cut from Two Fisted Mama)
reveals Katie unplugged (as they say) and "The Love You Save"
(cut from Swamp Boogie Queen) is a great tune as well. It bears mentioning
the guest artists appearing on this collection turn in great performances.
Kim Wilson, who also produced Webster on a few tunes, lends his vocals and
mouth harp to two tunes, along side Bonnie Raitt, Vasti Jackson and Robert
Cray. To be sure, the celebrities sound good, but Webster's piano is
always center stage; exactly as it should be. An amazing body of work from
an amazing woman.
- Bill Fountain -
Southwest Blues CD Review - September 1999
Current Reviews - 1999 Reviews
- available at our store
