Record Reviews

DR. JOHN ~ LIVE AT THE VILLAGE GATE OMNIVORE 612 (Barcode: 810075115208) ~ USA ~ Jazz-Blues Fusion Recorded: 1988 Released: 2025 This is a brilliant archival live 2CD album by iconic American singer / keyboardist / songwriter / bandleader Dr. JohnFind albums by this artist (a.k.a. Mac RebennackFind albums by this artist), captured at the NY Village Gate club in 1988, leading a septet, which included guitarist Joe CaroFind albums by this artist, bassist Wilbur BascombFind albums by this artist, drummer Richard CrooksFind albums by this artist, conga player Trazi WilliamsFind albums by this artist, saxophonists Ronnie CuberFind albums by this artist and Lou MariniFind albums by this artist and trumpeter Lew SoloffFind albums by this artist. The album presents twelve tracks, five of which are original songs by Rebennack, which sum up his entire career up to that point. The restored sound quality offers a most enjoyable listening experience. The music presents the usual unstoppable energy, great piano playing and unique vocals by Rebennack, who gives everything he has on the stage. The superb band that accompanies him offers a mixture of Blues and Jazz, which is just right for the occasion, and one just wishes to hop into the time travel machine and simply be there to share the vibe. There are no weak moments during the concert and sadly the reflection is, as usual, that “they don’t make music like this anymore”. Overall, this is another gem of American music, which deserves to be remembered and a lot can be learned from it about how to combine cross-genre musical sources to create a perfect amalgam, which is simply everlasting. Blues, Soul and vocal Jazz enthusiasts should love this album to bits, as I obviously do as well.

Updated: 19/12/2025Posted: 19/12/2025

CD 2 Digipak Remastered Recommend To A Friend