Search - Junior Wells :: Keep on Steppin: Best of Junior Wells

Good, but not great Wells

Alex | Colorado | 03/07/2001

(3 out of 5 stars)

"My list of reviews is probably plenty hint that I am a BIG Junior Wells fan. This compilation of Junior's years at Telarc is a good collection of the harpist's 90s material. Yet somehow, this album never feels like Junior Wells. To me, Wells was best when he was doing he tough, gritty Chicago blues. This time, though, Junior seems to be stretching more toward contemporary tunes which stretch the definition of blues. There are still some good tunes here, such as "Mystery Train", and "Broke and Hungry" along with "Messin' With the Kid" are a little closer to home for Wells' (he had a penchant for putting a funky twist on some of his songs, and was very effective at it). Overall this is a good CD and may be worth picking up if you shy away from "Better Off With The Blues" and "Everybody's Gettin' Some" ( supposedly his weakest efforts). However, his other two Telarc offerings "Live At Buddy Guy's Legends" and "Come On In This House" are definitely better offerings and, as the compose half the songs on this album, make it questionable weather this is actually the best way to invest in Wells. There is still plenty of great harp playing. Junior uses his harmonica often as a counterpoint to his singing, and he's good here, with his signature wails and vibratos. Overall, give this one a listen before you buy it."

This is a great CD for beginning listeners of blues music.

Alex | 08/11/1998

(5 out of 5 stars)

"I am not a big fan of blues and do not listen to it much. However, the first number "Oh Pretty Woman" was playing on the local jazz station and I had to go buy the CD. Aside from that number, I like "Give Me One Reason", "Keep on Steppin'" and "Mystery Train". Overall, a good CD to invest in."