One of the great things about Lil’ Ed’s music is the consistency of his sound. One of the reasons is being backws by pretty much the same musicians for more than 20 years. Although he has played with other musicians from time to time his band, featuring Michael Garrett on guitar, James “Pookie” Young on bass and Kelly Littlejohn on drums, has been a driving force behind his playing. And Lil’ Ed’s searing slide guitar playing and throaty vocals is what its all about.

This outing, like many of this other recordings, takes the listener on roller-coaster ride of soaring slide that builds up steam on the slow ride to the top and takes you plummeting when the bottom drops out and your stomach ends up in your throat. Yes, this is the type of electric Chicago slide guitar playing that his fans love and never get tired of hearing. You hear the influences of JB Hutto (his uncle and one of his earliest inspirations) as well as Hound Dog Taylor and Elmore James. But it doesn’t end there, as Lil’ Ed is not only carrying on that fine tradition but has developed a style that is easily identified as his own.

Like many blues performers of Lil’ Ed’s caliber seeing him perform live is one of those treats you never want to miss. But in lieu of that plopping this CD in your player is the next best thing, until he comes around to the club or festival near you again.

www.alligator.com

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