Search - Bill Morganfield :: Ramblin Mind

With his debut, Rising Son, Big Bill Morganfield firmly established himself as following in the footsteps of his famous father (that's Muddy Waters, in case you hadn't heard). The album, an impressively performed collection of original songs and lesser-known Waters compositions, was notable for simultaneously staying true to the electric blues style Waters helped pioneer, while also showcasing Morganfield's distinctive voice. True, his music sounds a lot like his father's; however, that's due not to slavish imitation, but to a desire to master a very traditional style of music to which the rules are well understood, if not always followed to such great result. Thus, with Ramblin' Mind, Morganfield's musical voice emerges more strongly and distinctly than ever before. It helps that this album features more originals; nine of the 14 tracks were penned by the younger Morganfield, and none is by his father. This makes for a greater variety of material and a chance for Morganfield to stretch his songwriting wings; while the usual electric blues is to be expected, there's also a bit of swing ("Mellow Chick Swing"), the cheerful "People Sure Act Funny," and the sultry "Dirty Dealin' Mama," which almost ought to earn the album a parental advisory sticker. Overall, Morganfield has proven that not only was the success of Rising Son not a fluke, but that following Muddy's footsteps doesn't mean riding on his coattails. --Genevieve Williams