"Otis Taylor's fourteenth album presents a meticulously crafted collection of songs and instrumentals and is only akin to his preceding recordings in that the music again resists easy categorization. Blues and Folk elements are a key part of this, but Taylor's cutting edge approach also draws on Psychedelic Rock, Jazz and Americana to create a hybrid that he calls Trance Blues. Central to Hey Joe Opus Red Meat are Taylor's musings on decision making and how these decisions can change all of our lives – and those of our families. Designed to be listened to as a single piece of music in ten parts, the new album has the song Hey Joe as its overriding theme which is performed in two different versions here, both with contrasting instrumentation. Further songs and song forms are moving into instrumental sections. Often incorporating spacey textures and interlocking guitars, further spice is added to these pieces via judicious use of violin and cornet. Helping to shape the album are four notable guests including powerhouse guitarist Warren Haynes (best known as a member of The Allman Brothers, The Dead and his own Gov't Mule), acoustic guitarist Bill Nershi from The String Cheese Incident and singer / songwriter / guitarist Langhorne Slim. Also featured is guitarist Daniel Sproul who has toured with, Eddie Van Halen, Warren Haynes, The Black Crowes and Otis Taylor. • DMM direct cut from 24/96 Hi-Res Master • 180 gr Audiophile Pressing • 45 R.P.M. Musicians: Otis Taylor (Vocals, Guitar) Anne Harris (Violin) Todd Edmunds (Bass) Larry Thompson (Drums) Ron Miles (Cornet) Taylor Scott (Guitar) Daniel Sproul (Guitar) Warren Haynes (Guitar) Bill Nershi (Acoustic Guitar) David Moore (Banjo, Piano) Langhorne Slim (Vocals, Acoustic Guitar) Steve Vidaic (Organ) Gus Skinas (Moog Synthesizer)"
S**N
Another Gem!
I have been a fan of Otis Taylor ever since I saw him supporting the late great Gary Moore. He never fails to impress and do something a little bit different on his albums. I know that there is some criticism over his use of the same tracks on this work. But whilst having the same titles the tracks are different, the arrangements are very good and the way he and the rest of his band deal with 'Hey Joe' is exceptional, just a shame Jimmy is not around to hear it but I expect and hope Bob approves?10 tracks in total, all related to the blues and to some extent to Otis's previous work and he continues to rediscover the banjo adds some horn in that is more around the jazz genre, but it all works. This is an exceptional piece of work lets hope it gets the recognition it deserves!
K**T
Hey Otis
A truly superb cd from someone i saw for the first time recently and was so impressed with his trance blues that I could have listened for hours. Hey Joe has been a favourite for many decades and OT's rendition is a quality addition with that endless hypnotic groove.The cd is a joy from start to finish and here in the 21st century an artist in his late sixties can still produce such memorable music is truly heartening.
R**N
Five Stars
Great recording and equally great music!
S**O
The second best version of Hey Joe?
I still prefer the Hendrix version but this is very close, well worth a listen.
A**S
New slant on Jimi
Good funky stuff, great Hey Joe will be played over and over many times, a must to see him live
M**S
Another great offering by Otis Taylor
Excellent album by Otis Taylor. One of those that you instantly like. The working of Hey Joe is particularly pleasing. All of Otis' albums are recommended.
S**R
Most excellent and unusual rendition of Jimi Hendrix classic Hey Joe
Most excellent and unusual rendition of Jimi Hendrix classic Hey Joe. Brass and banjo. Really! Sounds great. The whole album is a great listen with no jarring sounds. Highly recommended.
G**D
Superb - great memories
I heard "Hey Joe" played live as part of Otis Taylor's set in Paris last year, and thought it was the stand-out track in a brilliant gig. So, to have an album built around Otis' superb version of this song is a wonderful reminder of a great night.
