Those looking to get a feel for the sounds of a Mississippi juke joint on a Saturday night would be best advised to pick up the latest gem from the underrated R.L. Burnside: "Burnside on Burnside," a live disc recorded on a West Coast tour in January.
A renowned figure at home in Mississippi for four decades, the 74-year-old Burnside recently appeared on the national radar with a number of compelling releases, including last year's stellar "Wish I Was in Heaven Sitting Down." His version of country blues is soaring in popularity, as other artists such as Junior Kimbrough and Lightnin' Hopkins are also finally getting discovered on a broader scale.
Joining Burnside on his latest disc are his grandson, Cedric, on drums, and Kenny Brown, who has been playing slide guitar with him since 1971.
The result is a high-energy outing that starts high on "Shake 'Em Down," the blistering opening track, and never fades. The highlight is the rambling "Goin' Down South," an incendiary effort.
Those familiar with Burnside will recognize such staples as "Miss Maybelle" and "Bad Luck and Trouble," while there is a vibrant interpretation of "Rollin' & Tumblin'."
The interplay between Burnside and Brown on guitar is often mesmerizing, while the intensity of three musicians in constant sync is compelling.
Those accustomed to his studio efforts and newcomers alike will find Burnside's live playing full of electricity. This release, one of the year's best, will hopefully bring Burnside the audience he richly deserves. (Dave Ruden/The Stamford Advocate)
