The Parlor
Cornelius Chapel, 2021
8/10
A New Orleans bluesman who takes a minimal but very impactful approach to song craft, Alabama Slim aligns himself with Little Freddie King, Ardie Dean, Jimbo Mathus and Matt Patton across a bluesy, soulful and boogie friendly adventure with The Parlor.
“Hot Foot” starts the listen with spirited guitars and frisky percussion as Slim’s stylish delivery is both singing and speaking in a very rhythmic setting, and “Freddie’s Voodoo Boogie” follows with a timeless blues approach that’s got plenty of soul while making the most out of sparse chords as King takes lead vocals.
“All Night Long” lands in the middle, and displays Slim’s very expressive and warm pipes amid a laid back climate, while “Midnight Rider” shuffles with raw, swampy blues. “Rock Me Baby:, one of the album’s best, then drips with a retro blues appeal that brings plenty of grooves to the inviting landscape.
Deep in the record, “Someday Baby” flows with a melodic swagger and foot stompin’ vibe, and “Down In The Bottom” exits the listen with intricate guitar work and strategic percussion alongside Slim’s inimitable singing.
Amazingly, The Parlor was laid down in one take for a straight to tape feel, but when you’ve got members of Drive-By Truckers and Squirrel Nut Zippers in your band, that certainly helps as Slim’s grit and spontaneity is captured and highlighted superbly in this classic blues effort.
Travels well with: Big Bill Broonzy- The Midnight Special; Various Artists- Sunrise On The Blues