Search - Van Wilks :: Koko's Hideaway

An overlooked Texas Original

Barry Bishop | Lubbock, TX USA | 08/16/2000

(4 out of 5 stars)

"I first saw Van in the late 70's at Fat Dawg's, a local bar that always seemed to bring in the best, and sometimes unknown artists. He proceeded to play guitar in a manner and style that had not been seen or heard by anyone in our area before (I think he and Eddie Van Halen were on the same page with regard to new and innovative styles at the same time). He was eventually picked up by Bill Hamm (ZZ Top), and released 2 albums that were very good, but didn't have any support. He played around Texas for several years thereafter, but never gained much success.I was pleasantly surprised when I came across his personal website (VanWilks.com) with his latest offerings. Take a listen, I think most will like the stuff if they're into Billy Gibbons meets Eric Johnson. His vocals and songwriting are worth mention too."

A real bluesman

Ace | UK | 03/13/2002

(5 out of 5 stars)

"Van Wilks can play the blues. Electric blues with a tone all his own, even National Steel Dobro with his favourite glass bottle slide. There aren't many guitarists these days that you can recognise after hearing just a couple of notes, but Van is one of them.Koko's Hideaway starts heavy and quickly opens up to show off Van's fine songwriting. His vocals are always a joy, and the guitar playing is truly awesome at times - Mama Talk is a personal favourite.Fellow Texan guitarist Eric Johnson joins Van for a guest spot on Vanatized - an upbeat intrumental that puts Van alongside the greats where he belongs.Van's guitar playing should be heard by anyone into any style of blues, he has a genuine passion, and unique tone, that can be heard all over Koko's Hideaway. You will not be disappointed."