Omar & The Howlers
Bamboozled
RUF 1115
It is common knowledge that Kent Dykes hails from the same hometown as Bo Diddley (whose famous beat features on Magic Man),
began to play guitar at seven years of age, was hanging out in juke joints when he was 12 years old, and joined his first band a year
later. By age 20, he was gigging regularly with a wild party band called the Howlers. They started referring to Dykes as Omar Overtone,
and in 1976 the band relocated to Austin, Texas. It wasn’t long before the original members went their separate ways, but Omar has been
a staple of the Austin music scene ever since. His first recording was released in 1980. The current version of the Howlers includes Jon
Hahn drums and Barry Bihm bass. In addition to guitar, Omar handles vocals that at times growl like Howlin’ Wolf.
Recorded October 20, 2005, Bamboozled contains fiery music created by a burly man and his band. This 74-minute set, 15 songs,
including only one cover, were culled from approximately 10 previous releases. Each song evolves around Omar’s heavy guitar.
Beginning with the rockin’ shuffle "Shake For Me," the power trio delves into their bold brand of biker blues. A Creedence Clearwater
Revival influence can be detected in the guitar riffs of "Mississippi Hoo Doo Man". Instead of immediately smacking you straight between
the eyes, "South Congress Blues" initially takes you on a pleasurable journey.
The best songs are the final few. "Bad Seed" is a standout since it contains a friendly and welcoming beat, a roots rock arrangement.
With no segue; the song immediately develops into "Wall Of Pride". It contains a solid, crunching rhythm which is absent from many
other songs. "Hard Times In The Land Of Plenty" depicts this band at their core because the tune is rudimentary ass kicking rock. This
is rowdy roadhouse music. It is made for heavy drinking and frenetic dancing crowds like those that gathered at the Musa in Germany.
Yet, fans of guitar-driven music will enjoy this basic and tough blues/rock.
- Tim Holek -
Southwest Blues CD Review - March 2007
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