CHRIS THOMAS KING
It's A Cold Ass World - The Beginning (Arhoolie)
Reviewed by Eric Steiner

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One of the many great sons of Baton Rouge blues, Chris Thomas King's early work has been captured by Arhoolie Records on It's A Cold Ass World - The Beginning. This disc features King's 1986 recordings for Arhoolie, long before he went on to the Blind Pig pen, or sang as Tommy Johnson in the Coen Brothers' film O Brother Where Art Thou?. Chris recorded these throwback cuts while he got his start at Tabby's Blues Box in Baton Rouge. His father, Tabby Thomas, is a mainstay in Baton Rouge's music scene, both at his club and on his weekend blues radio show. My favorite cuts from these early recordings include "Going Home to Louisiana" and "South Side Shuffle." It's a Cold Ass World is more than the beginnings of a rare blues talent, it's a document that has stood the test of time for a very talented guitar player. It should be no surprise, as Chris is part of Baton Rouge's blues royalty, and he's following in Rockin' Tabby Thomas' legacy just fine.

Track List:

The Blues Is Back * Soon This Morning * Cheatin' Women Blues * Cocaine (Snow White) * Mary Jane * Take Yo Time * Going Home To Louisiana * South Side Shuffle * You'll Be Sorry, Baby * Don't Work Too Hard

© 2001 - Eric Steiner