Crawfish Fiesta

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In the corner of the world known as New Orleans, Roy Byrd--Professor Longhair--looms larger than any other musical figure with the possible exception of Louis Armstrong. This album, recorded in 1979 and released the following year just after his death, marks his final recordings, and it includes a robust horn section, tight rhythm section, and Dr. John strumming guitar alongside his idol. The pianist bounces buoyantly through old favorites while adding some new songs into the mix. Fess's infectious vocals, jaunty ivory-tickling, and funky groove provide the ultimate soundtrack to the Crescent City and show exactly why the city has the reputation that it does. Take two mudbugs and call me in the morning. Better make that the afternoon. Late afternoon. --Marc Greilsamer

Product Description

Village Voice called it a masterpiece, the W.C. Handy Awards called it the Contemporary Blues Album of the Year-and now Professor Longhair's last (and arguably best) LP is available on CD and 180-gram vinyl. Dr. John returns to his guitar roots on this 1980 LP, handling the six-string as the Professor and the band play "Big Chief," "Bald Head," "Crawfish Fiesta," "Red Beans," "Cry to Me," "In the Wee Hours" and more. Bonus rehearsal track: "River's Invitation"! Alligator.

Review

Released in 1980, Crawfish Fiesta was the most satisfying album of the legendary New Orleans pianist's career, as well as his farewell (he died shortly before its release). Longhair's delectable rhumba-laced eighty-eights and a suitably funky band combine for spicy remakes of his classics "Bald Head" and "Big Chief," succulent covers of Fats Domino's "Whole Lotta Loving" and Solomon Burke's "Cry to Me," and some pleasing new material. (B.D.) -- © Frank John Hadley 1993 -- From Grove Press Guide to Blues on CD, ISBN13:B0000009XL ISBN10:B0000009XL Material Type:audioCD