Search - Robert Lockwood Jr :: Play Robert & Robert

Pretty Good, But People Get Carried Away

01/25/2001

(3 out of 5 stars)

"I think it's obvious that Lockwood is a fine guitarist, and that when he gets going he can be very good. I think, however, that Lockwood gets a lot of credit from his connection to Robert Johnson that has nothing to do with his own power as an artist. If you listen to his music from the 50s and early 60s, before he took his hiatus from performance, you can hear a very distinctive accompanist who feeds off the energy of the company he keeps and basically goes as far as they can take him. He had a fine duet with Ottis Spann that illustrates this point beautifuly. But listening to his own solo material is never nearly as inspiring -- and I've seen him perform in Cleveland and other cities on many occasions, as well as hearing his CDs. His renditions here on Plays Robert and Robert are a beuatiful illustration of that: the man's just going through the motions. He has none of Johnson's power or passion; he always sounds to me to be smooth and fluent, but a bit mechanical. This is an okay album, like his others, but I don't share the opinion of Lockwood's cheerleaders that he's a genius. Good, no doubt, but not a genius. I know Lockwood wants his due..., but I think he's made a good career out his his connection to Johnson, and he wouldn't have had any solo career at all if that story had not been around to support him."

Classic Blues from one of the all time greatist bluesman

06/15/1999

(5 out of 5 stars)

"Blues at it's best, every song a true blues classic. Robert plays a collection of his and his stepfathers songs.(Robert Johnson-King of the Delta Blues) My favorate track is Robert's enduring rendition of See See Rider. All These songs are performed solo on the 12 String Guitar. Great liner notes that gives you great insight to the history of this legendary performer. If you ever get the chance to see Robert live, don't miss the opportunity to see one of the last living roots bluesman, it will leave a lasting impression on you."