Popular Music and Society: Freddie Roulette. Back in Chicago.

Hi Horse Records CD 4044. San Rafael, CA.

A brilliant, jazz-oriented execution of the Santo and Johnny classic "Sleepwalk" on an 8-string National lap steel guitar is the high point of this blues-oriented disc. But Freddie Roulette doesn't relent with this terrific reprise. He is a superb stylist covering several other signature songs. He tiptoes in and steals from the songbooks of such powerhouse blues figures as Howlin' Wolf ("Killing Floor"), B. B. King ("The Thrill Is Gone"), and Albert King ("Everybody Wants to Go to Heaven"). Though not as commanding as his instrumental power, Roulette's vocal styling is clearly reminiscent of the latter Stax star. This virtuoso lap steel player, a native of Evanston, Illinois, is currently being hailed in Chicago for his lifelong blues trek. The eclectic influences of Earl Hooker, Buddy Guy, Muddy Waters, Sugar Pie De Santo, Little Walter, Charlie Musselwhite, John Lee Hooker, and Harvey Mandel spice Roulette's confident, creative; complex playing style. Yet one hears echoes of Albert King everywhere. Hopefully, this is more of a blessing than a curse.

B. Lee Cooper
History
University of Great Falls
Great Falls MT 59405

lcooper@ugf.edu