EDDY "THE CHIEF" CLEARWATER
Reservation Blues (Bullseye Blues)
Reviewed by Eric Steiner

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Eddy Clearwater's Reservation Blues is a rollicking Chicago blues record that ranges from the eerie, swirling "Winds of Change" to the boogie-driven "I Wouldn't Lay My Guitar Down" and Chuck Berry's "Sweet Little Rock and Roller." He's got a tight band that includes producer Duke Robillard on guitar and guest harp legend Carey Bell. When Bell's harp and Matt McCabe's piano fuel "Find Yourself," this disc is magic, and a great example of Chicago blues. I might quarrel with "Reservation Blues" and the way Eddy sings about his lady, but at times, I tire of making sure I'm being politically correct. After all, Eddy first came to Chicago fifty years ago to play the blues, and I'm confident that he didn't mean no disrespect. More importantly, I'd like to think he's honoring his Cherokee ancestors when he sings, on "Reservation Blues," that if you've lived on a reservation, "you really have paid your dues." Eddy sure has, as he began playing professionally at 13, backing The Five Blind Boys of Alabama. There's a lot of great blues on Reservation Blues, from one of the Chicago area's hardest working musicians: in any given month, he can be found at B.L.U.E.S., or Blue Chicago, or any other great Chicago blues club.

Track List:

Winds of Change * I Wouldn't Lay My Guitar Down * Find Yourself * Reservation Blues * Walls of Hate * Running Along * Blues Cruise * Susie Q * Easy Is My Style * Everything to Gain * Sweet Little Rock and Roller

© 2000 - Eric Steiner