Album Info
| Artist: | John Lee Hooker |
| Album: | It Serves You Right To Suffer |
| Released: | Russia, 2018 |
Tracklist:
| A1 | Shake It Baby | |
| A2 | Country Boy | |
| A3 | Bottle Up And Go | |
| A4 | You're Wrong | |
| B1 | Sugar Mama | |
| B2 | Decoration Day | |
| B3 | Money | |
| Composed By - Berry Gordy, Jr. | ||
| B4 | It Serve You Right To Suffer |
Info About Buying Vinyl From Our Record Store
- We are a small independent record store located at 211 High St, Preston in Melbourne, Australia (North of Northcote, between Thornbury & Reservoir)
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- Happy Listening!
Description
John Lee Hooker's album "It Serves You Right to Suffer" is a quintessential piece of blues history, released in 1966 under the Impulse! Records label. This album stands out not only for its raw, emotive power but also for its unique place in Hooker's extensive discography. Known for his deep, resonant voice and hypnotic guitar style, Hooker delivers a performance that is both haunting and deeply moving.
The album opens with the title track, "It Serves You Right to Suffer," a slow blues that showcases Hooker's ability to convey profound emotion with minimal instrumentation. His voice, a gravelly baritone, carries the weight of the lyrics, while his guitar playing is both sparse and evocative. The song sets the tone for the rest of the album, which is characterized by its stripped-down, almost minimalist approach to the blues.
One of the standout tracks on the album is "Shake It Baby," a more upbeat number that features Hooker's signature boogie rhythm. The song is a testament to Hooker's versatility as a musician, demonstrating his ability to shift seamlessly from slow, mournful blues to more energetic, danceable tunes. The repetitive, driving rhythm of "Shake It Baby" is infectious, drawing the listener in and compelling them to move.
Another notable track is "Country Boy," which highlights Hooker's storytelling prowess. The song paints a vivid picture of rural life, with Hooker's lyrics capturing the struggles and joys of a country boy trying to make his way in the world. The simplicity of the arrangement, with its steady guitar and subtle percussion, allows Hooker's voice and lyrics to take center stage.
"You're Leavin' Me, Baby" is a heart-wrenching ballad that delves into themes of love and loss. Hooker's vocal delivery is particularly powerful on this track, conveying a sense of vulnerability and longing that is palpable. The sparse instrumentation, featuring just Hooker's guitar and a subtle bass line, adds to the song's emotional impact.
The album also includes "Decoration Day," a traditional blues song that Hooker makes his own with his distinctive style. The track is a somber reflection on loss and remembrance, with Hooker's voice carrying a sense of gravitas that is deeply affecting. The song's repetitive structure and Hooker's hypnotic guitar playing create a meditative, almost trance-like atmosphere.
"It Serves You Right to Suffer" is notable for its production quality, which is a departure from the raw, lo-fi sound of many of Hooker's earlier recordings. The album was produced by Bob Thiele, who was known for his work with jazz artists on the Impulse! label. Thiele's influence is evident in the album's clean, polished sound, which allows Hooker's voice and guitar to shine.
In conclusion, "It Serves You Right to Suffer" is a masterful album that captures John Lee Hooker at the height of his powers. The album's blend of slow, emotive blues and more upbeat, rhythmic tracks showcases Hooker's versatility and depth as a musician. With its powerful vocal performances, evocative guitar playing, and high-quality production, "It Serves You Right to Suffer" is a must-listen for any blues enthusiast. It stands as a testament to Hooker's enduring legacy and his profound impact on the genre.
