Plain and simple, this is a monster album. Lucky Peterson sings, plays great guitar, a lot of keyboards, and covers a lot of great songs.
The rockin’ wah-drenched cover of Ernie Isley’s “Deal With It” opens things and sets the tone. From there, things don’t let up. The minor-key funk/rock of “The Otherside” showcases Peterson’s big-toned soloing and great vocals. “Tribute to Luther Allison” is exactly what it says, and deserves its title. But Lucky’s no one-trick pony. His soulful cover of Sam Cooke’s “Shake” is guaranteed to get your butt rockin’. And his wonderful cover of Timmy Thomas’ early-’70s hit, “Why Can’t We Live Together” is pure soul. Finally, anyone who covers Johnny “Guitar” Watson’s “Ta’Ta’ You” and does the masterful job that Peterson does here is a king in my book.
Those are just a few of the highlights. There’s not a bad cut here. In fact, there’s not even a mediocre cut. They all shine. And the band cooks – Johnny B. Gayden on bass and Steve Potts on drums anchor each and every tune wonderfully.
I love this album. If you buy just one CD this month, make it this one. You won’t be disappointed.
This article originally appeared in VG‘s Jan. ’00 issue. All copyrights are by the author and Vintage Guitar magazine. Unauthorized replication or use is strictly prohibited.
