Search - Johnny Winter :: Guitar Slinger

Ivan P. from WICHITA, KS
Reviewed on 10/7/2006...

Pure Johnny. Too much for me

Strong Medicine

David Collin | Brisbane, Australia | 01/06/2001

(5 out of 5 stars)

"I've had this disc for a couple of years now and can't stop playing it. It's some of the most energised, wildest, hell-raising blues I've ever heard! Forget about those ramshackle mid-70s efforts: Johnny's in the very best company here. Largely self-produced, Johnny's cranked-up, turbo-charged playing is given free reign, with generous doses of his trademark slide, and those machine-gun speed solos that only he can deliver (who else can keep up?). The rhythm section is watertight, and while the rollicking keyboards take a back seat, they don't leave us asking that perennial question ("where's your brother???"). Tasteful horn arrangements are featured on a few tracks, but for me the real suprise of this recording is Johnny's improved vocals (compared to earlier efforts). They're more assured and even soulful at times (even when he's barking!), but typically gravel-toned and raucous. If there's anything missing here, well, it's an acoustic number, but hey, when was the last time a restaurant gave you a sample of everything on the menu? I've long been mystified why blues "desert island" lists never seem to include a Johnny Winter album. Surely there must be at least a few strong candidates! Well, this is my one. This is strong medicine, not the herbal variety, which I recommend unreservedly."

"ATTACK OF THE BLUES GUITAR"

Kurt Harding | 04/19/1999

(5 out of 5 stars)

"THIS DISC SMOKES ALL THE WAY THROUGH.A MUST HAVE FOR ANY FAN OF TEXAS BLUES ROCK.IT WILL LEAVE YOU WITH GOOSEBUMPS.10 STARS+++++"