Customer Reviews

Medicated Magic

5 star:		(4)
4 star:		(3)
3 star:		(0)
2 star:		(0)
1 star:		(0)

 

 

On the occasion of their 25th Anniversary, this New Orleans institution has released an absotively bonaroo CD, if you know what we mean (or if we do). Although the personnel have changed a wee bit over the years, this largely in tact band of premier musicians continues t provide some of the most buoyant, joyous, dynamic music to be found anywhere. Included here are classic-sounding originals written by members of the band and just plain classics of such Nawlins legends as Allen Toussaint, The Meters, Professor Longhair, Dr. John, and Aaron Neville and Irma Thomas. Produced by Craig Street, whose name seems to pop up on a significant number of our favorite albums, this CD employs an eclectic and imaginative assemblage of guest artists. Included are Dr. John himself, roots/jazz vocalist Olu Dara, turntablist DJ Logic, the incredible Robert Randolph who coaxes the most distinctive and unusual sounds out of a pedal steel guitar, and, just when we were beginning to go through a Norah jones, she provides a fix with a stunning rendition of a Nawlins standard. If there is a more thoroughly funked-up album out there right now, we'd like to know about it.

Let me start by saying that I love the DDBB. They are true pioneers who, 25 years later, are delivering music that is as good (probably better) than when they started. Highlighted by virtuoso performances and amazing arrangements, they define "old school" for me. Other bands should (and obviously do) listen to and emulate them, but there can be only one DDBB.

The first time I listened to Medicated Magic, I was a little disappointed, as I was hoping for an album as outstanding as their last one, Buck Jump (one of the baddest, funkiest, old-school-showin'-em-how-its-done albums EVER). But as I listen to this CD more, it has definitely grown on me. Especially good are the opener "Ain't Nothin But a Party"; their cover of the Meters' "Cissy Strut"; "Ruler of My Heart" with Norah Jones (now I see what the fuss is about!); and "Big Chief" with Dr John. It's great to see DDBB giving props to the music of New Orleans, much like they did on the New Orleans album (which I also recommend).

My only (minor) complaints are that "Walk on Guilded Splinters" with John Bell of Widespread Panic does not kick quite as much as the live version they did on WP's recent live album (although its very good), and the duet with Dr John on "Everything I Do Gon' Be Funky" does not have as much bite as it should. But overall, a very, very good album. (P.S. check out their live DVD - unbelievable!!!)

This was my first exposure to the DDBB. Godd stuff! I'll be coming back for more! "We Got Robbed" (based on an actual incident involving the band) is a lot of fun with it's instrumental interplay and chants of the title. The Eighth wonder of the world Robert Randolph (see "Live at the Wetlands" and "The Word") contributes his soulful steel guitar on "Tell It Like It Is" and "Cissy Strut" (unfortunately, he's barely audible on his other contribution to this effort). Other than that mild complaint, enjoy some REAL (non-synthesized) music that your radio SHOULD be playing!

Once again the mighty horn totin' denizens of the Crescent City bring forth another fine effort. Beyond their always soulful playing, their "back to basics" recording and their clever and idiomatic arrangements, this outing pairs the Band with several distinguished guest artists. Particular stand-outs include Norah Jones, D.J. Logic and the always welcome voice of Dr. John. The cut with Olu Dara (Junko Partner), has a "big four" beat that is so relaxed it sounds like it happened yesterday and of course, the Band rolls right along in the pocket. This really is a great listen....keep up the great work fellas....

This is great second line music with the sizzlin' shufflin'
parade beats and the funk. Lots of staples from the Nola songbook. Solowise, the baritone sax is the
hottest. If you have a friend who plays baritone sax, don't wait, get this already.

Get on the good foot and party to this side!

This is not far from be as good as Dr John and Meters records from early 70.

Good sound, great "second line" music and that means great good old New Orleans funk music. A real party record... a REAL great party record :-)

i bought this record yesterday and immediately went back for another copy b/c i'm sure to wear the first one out. simply put? this is the best funk/jazz/jam record EVER to come out of new orleans. save yourself some money, stay home from jazz fest this year and sit at home with a cold one, throw in medicated magic, and leave it on repeat. this one's a guaranteed desert island classic