Album Info
Record Store Day 2024 Australian Vinyl Release
This vinyl record will be available to buy online from 9am on Monday 22nd April. It will be first come first serve and there is a maximum purchase limit of one record per release (you can buy as many records as you want but not multiples of the same record) and there are no holds.
| Artist: | Earl Hooker |
| Album: | There's a Fungus Amung Us (Red, White & Green Burst Vinyl) |
| Released: | April 20, 2024 |
Tracklist:
| A1 | Two Bugs In A Rug | |
| A2 | Hold On | |
| A3 | Off The Hook | |
| A4 | Dust My Broom | |
| A5 | Hot And Heavy | |
| A6 | The Screwdriver | |
| B1 | Bertha | |
| B2 | The Foxtrot | |
| B3 | End Of The Blues | |
| B4 | Walkin' Rag | |
| B5 | Hooker Special | |
| B6 | Something You Ate |
PLEASE NOTE: Information provided on this page about this specific Record Store Day release including tracklists and any images may be incomplete or inaccurate as not all information is available about the final release at this stage. We will continue to update this page as more information becomes available closer to Record Store Day about the specific vinyl releases.
Info About Buying Vinyl From Our Record Store
- We are a small independent record store located at 91 Plenty Rd, Preston in Melbourne, Australia (North of Northcote, between Thornbury & Reservoir)
- We buy and sell new and used vinyl records - if you have a collection you'd like to sell please click here.
- We ship Australia wide for a flat rate of $10 for standard shipping or $15 for express post.
- Free Shipping for orders $125 and over.
- You can also pick up your order in store, just select Local Pickup at the checkout.
- We also ship internationally - prices vary depending on weight and location.
- We ship vinyls in thick, rigid carboard mailers with a crushable zone on either side, and for extra safety we bubble wrap the records.
- In stock vinyl is usally shipped next business day, please check the availability field at the top of the product page to see whether the record is currently in stock or if it is available from the supplier as well as estimated shipping times.
- If you order an in stock item together with a pre order or back order (listed as available from supplier rather than in stock) then the order will be shipped together when all items arrive. If you would like the in stock items shipped first please place two separate orders or contact us to arrange shipping items separately.
- We are strongly committed to customer satisfaction. If you experience any problems with your order contact us so we can rectify the situation. If the record arrives damaged or doesn't arrive we will cover the cost of replacing or returning the record.
- If you change your mind you have 30 days to return your record but you must cover the cost of returning it to the store.
- You can contact our Melbourne record shop at (03) 9939 3807 or at info@funkyduckvinyl.com
- Happy Listening!
Details
Genre(s): |
Blues, Chicago Blues |
Format: |
Vinyl Record LP |
Description
PLEASE NOTE: The following album review is general information about the original record release and may not be releveant to this specfic vinyl release for Record Store Day 2024.
Earl Hooker's "There's a Fungus Among Us" is an intriguing album in the blues guitarist's discography, primarily known for its innovative use of the electric guitar and Hooker's mastery of the instrument. The album, released posthumously in the early '70s but containing recordings from various sessions in the '60s, showcases Hooker's versatility and pioneering approach to blues guitar playing, blending traditional blues forms with experimental sounds and techniques.
The album's title track, "There's a Fungus Among Us," immediately sets a whimsical tone, diverging from traditional blues themes. This instrumental piece highlights Hooker's playful approach to music, featuring quirky guitar effects that mimic the sounds of a 'fungus' growing, an early example of Hooker's interest in exploring the sonic capabilities of the electric guitar beyond conventional boundaries.
Throughout the album, Hooker's guitar work is front and center, displaying his fluid, expressive style and his ability to coax a wide range of sounds from his instrument. His use of the slide guitar, in particular, is noteworthy, with tracks like "Wah Wah Blues" demonstrating his skill in creating emotive, vocal-like tones that sing and wail, evoking a deep sense of blues feeling.
"Sweet Black Angel," another standout track, is a testament to Hooker's roots in the Delta blues tradition, yet it is imbued with his signature flair, incorporating subtle vibrato and bending techniques that give the song a modern edge. This track, among others, illustrates Hooker's deep respect for the blues tradition, coupled with his desire to push the genre forward.
Instrumentally, the album is characterized by its minimalist arrangements, allowing Hooker's guitar work to take center stage. The backing musicians provide a solid, unobtrusive foundation that supports Hooker's explorations, creating a space where his guitar can truly sing. This setup reflects Hooker's belief in the guitar as the primary storyteller in his music, capable of conveying a wide range of emotions and narratives.
Production-wise, "There's a Fungus Among Us" captures the raw, live energy of Hooker's playing, with minimal overdubs or studio trickery. This authenticity is a key component of the album's charm, offering listeners a glimpse into Hooker's prowess as a live performer and his ability to engage with his instrument in real-time.
While "There's a Fungus Among Us" may not have achieved the commercial success of some of Hooker's contemporaries, its significance lies in its showcase of Hooker's innovative guitar techniques and his contributions to the development of electric blues guitar playing. Tracks like "Guitar Rhumba" and "Two Bugs in a Rug" exemplify his creative approach to composition and arrangement, blending traditional blues forms with elements of funk, soul, and rock.
In retrospect, "There's a Fungus Among Us" stands as a testament to Earl Hooker's genius as a guitarist and his forward-thinking approach to the blues. His willingness to experiment with sound and form, coupled with his undeniable mastery of the guitar, has left an indelible mark on the blues genre, influencing countless guitarists in the years that followed.
Overall, the album serves as a compelling showcase for Hooker's artistry, creativity, and his pivotal role in the evolution of blues music. It remains a vital listen for guitar enthusiasts and blues aficionados alike, offering a window into the mind of one of the most innovative blues guitarists of the 20th century.
