Search - Otis Rush :: Sonet Blues Story

A treat for (completist) Otis Rush fans

tin2x | Staten Island, NY USA | 08/12/2006

(3 out of 5 stars)

"Most of this material has been already seen the light of day in altered form in the US on Alligator's "Lost in the Blues" release. For that release Alligator licensed Otis' European album "Troubles, Troubles" and then dropping a cut, overdubbing Lucky Peterson on keys, and remixing Otis Rush's guitar (cutting down some solos too). The result was a competent but unspectacular release.



This release makes big amends. Firstly this is the album as it was originally released with 2 outtakes. Secondly Otis Rush's vocals and guitar work stand out better in a less cluttered musical environment. This was not Otis' best material by a long stretch, but for those who enjoy his work it's a vast improvement over Alligator's bastardization.



Otis Rush had a stroke some time ago and it's unlikely this under-appreciated legend of the blues will release any new material. His talent, especially his guitar playing, is on better display on other releases (notably his Cobra sides available on a variety of compilations, "Right Place, Wrong Time", "Anyplace I'm Going", "Cold Day in Hell", "Ain't Enough Comin' In" and some stellar live releases such as "Live in Europe" and 2 more live releases on Delmark). However for true fans of Otis work and those looking to dig a little deeper into the blues this is welcome release."