Dr. John (aka Mac Rebennack) is the most gracious of musicians, delighted by how fate smiled so blessedly on him by plunking him down in the Crescent City. The good doctor is living refutation of the nostrum that art merely imitates life. Read his prose, hear his spoken voice, and they're as one with his musical voice--- in terms of content, rhythm, and cadence.
'Creole Moon' opens another chapter in the saga of Dr. John's specific interpretation of New Orleans, so each song is framed within a personal remembrance, an interesting story, or a vignette. New Orleans' music is as all encompassing as the vast musical cosmos. And all the global connections that formed this melting sonic pot of exotic gumbo are revealed in 'Creole Moon'-- whether they be the sambas of Brazil, the languorous south Louisianan grooves, the festive Caribbean rhythms, the Cajun high-steps, or the tempestuous Irish connections. And of course, there's the omnipresent blues with its African origins. Factor in that N'awlins is also the cradle of Jazz, and you soon realize that this is a town where the term "World Music" is totally hype-free.
A fine helping of straight-up fonk gets dished up on "Food for Thot", served with a side dish of steaming James Brown groove. "Holdin' Pattern" is performed in the mystical key of F sharp minor, with jazzy violin from Michael Doucet adding to the alluring weirdness. The Night Tripper claims that a witch doctor gave him the melody to "Bruha Bembe": Its hypnotic vibe proves that he keeps good company, and contributing to the entrancement is the willowy, haunting flute work of Charley Miller.
The title track is an ambitious project unto itself, a symphony of swirling atmospherics, including classical ones. At its core is a Kansas City and Charlie Parker feel, yet it also segues into a middle interlude of Trinidadian-based pre-calypso flavors. Prominently featuring the sophisticated stylings of saxophonist David "Fathead" Newman, "Creole Moon" is the perfect way to forget your cares when the numbness of the night intrudes.
"Imitation of Love"---co-written by Rebennack and the late legendary r&b tunesmith Doc Pomus--- is a great old-fashioned blues ballad: one I made first acquaintance with on the incomparable Johnny Adams' 'The Real Me' album. Dr. John also prescribes the real medicine on this timeless tale of shuck-love. Another welcome Rebennack/Pomus collaboration is showcased on "One 2 A.M.Too Many': a heckuva title and a hell of a song.
Dr. John remains the epitome of distinctiveness, an artist steeped in tradition, yet someone also possessed of a unique vision that puts him at the vanguard of the cutting edge. 'Creole Moon' is a rainbow of creativity, earning my unqualified recommendation.
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