JOHN HIATT
Crossing Muddy Waters (Vanguard)
Reviewed by Shaun Dale

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John Hiatt describes Crossing Muddy Waters, his 16th album and first for Vanguard, as "back porch music." I couldn't describe it better. It's a largely acoustic affair, with Hiatt on guitar, David Immergluck on guitar and mandolin and Davey Faragher on electric bass, the only instrument that's officially "plugged in." No drums, no keyboards, nothing but three friends and eleven terrific songs.

Terrific songs are nothing new for John Hiatt, who's provided hits for just about anyone you wish to name. Most recently, Eric Clapton and B.B. King scored big with Hiatt's "Riding With The King." I suspect that Hiatt could get by just fine on writing royalties alone, but I'm awful glad he decided to sit down and make another album of his own. This has a real labor of love feel to it, with Hiatt pouring a lot of himself into the heartfelt, idiosyncratic vocals that bring the songs to life.

Since I'm reviewing this for an on-line magazine, I should mention that it was released simultaneously by Vanguard Records and mp3.com. Do the world a favor, though, and get the CD instead of the download. Vanguard is an indie that deserves your support. They've been releasing a lot of catalog lately that probably won't set the charts on fire, but deserves to be out there. Say thanks with the purchase of one of the best CD's you'll hear this year.

Track List:

Lincoln Town * Crossing Muddy Waters * What Will We Do Now * Only The Song Survives * Lift Up Every Stone * Take It Down * Gone * Take It Back * Mr. Stanley * God's Golden Eyes * Before I Go

© 2000 - Shaun Dale