Dr. John, The Night Tripper - The Sun, Moon & Herbs (LP)

"The Sun, Moon & Herbs" is the third studio album by American musician Dr. John, released in 1971 under his alter ego "The Night Tripper." This album takes listeners on a psychedelic journey through mystical and hallucinatory soundscapes, blending elements of New Orleans R&B, funk, and voodoo-infused rhythms. With its experimental nature, hypnotic grooves, and immersive atmosphere, "The Sun, Moon & Herbs" stands as a bold and captivating work in Dr. John's discography.

"The Sun, Moon & Herbs" opens with the epic and mesmerizing "Black John the Conqueror," immediately immersing the listener in the mystical and otherworldly world of The Night Tripper. Dr. John's deep and charismatic vocals, coupled with the hypnotic rhythms and dense instrumental arrangements, create a sense of intrigue and mysticism.

One of the standout tracks on "The Sun, Moon & Herbs" is the haunting and atmospheric "Walk on Guilded Splinters." Clocking in at nearly eight minutes, the song slowly builds with its intricate percussion, eerie guitar lines, and Dr. John's captivating vocal performance. The fusion of voodoo-inspired lyrics and the hypnotic musical arrangement creates a trance-like experience.

"The Sun, Moon & Herbs" also features tracks like "Familiar Reality-Opening" and "Pots on Fiyo (File Gumbo)/Who I Got to Fall On (If the Pot Get Heavy)," which further delve into "The Sun, Moon & Herbs"'s themes of spirituality, mysticism, and cultural heritage. The diverse instrumental palette, incorporating horns, strings, and percussion, adds depth and texture to the music, creating a rich and immersive sonic landscape.

Throughout "The Sun, Moon & Herbs", Dr. John's experimental approach to songwriting and production shines through. The Night Tripper persona allows him to push the boundaries and explore new sonic territories, blending genres and incorporating various cultural influences into his music.

In terms of production, "The Sun, Moon & Herbs" maintains a raw and atmospheric sound, capturing the mystical and hallucinatory nature of "The Sun, Moon & Herbs". The mix balances the various layers of instruments and vocal parts, creating a sense of depth and immersion.

In conclusion, "The Sun, Moon & Herbs" is a captivating and adventurous album that showcases Dr. John's unique musical vision under his Night Tripper persona. With its experimental nature, hypnotic grooves, and immersive atmosphere, "The Sun, Moon & Herbs" stands as a testament to Dr. John's artistic exploration and his ability to create music that transports listeners to another realm. Whether you're a fan of psychedelic music or appreciate bold and immersive musical experiences, "The Sun, Moon & Herbs" is a must-listen that captures the essence of Dr. John's Night Tripper persona and his creative genius.