Review by Keith "MuzikMan" Hannaleck
4 stars out of 4
How do I begin to discuss one of the most enduring legends of rock
and roll? First and foremost I have to say that Fats Domino has my
complete respect and admiration for what he has done for music. "Walking
To New Orleans" is nothing short of magnificent in covering a great
career that was marred by a stuck-in-the-middle syndrome for Fats.
This unfair placement by critics and fans alike had him take a backseat
to his contemporaries such as Little Richard and Elvis. Although he
is considered to be one of the original rockers from the 50's, Fats
played a catchy hook filled combination of New Orleans R&B, Piano
Blues, Rock & Roll, and R&B. He brought a lot to the table, and a
hell of a lot more than just rock.
100 songs of good old rock and roll for the soul are what you can
expect from this generous four CD boxed set. Fats' trademark soulful
piano playing and from-the-belly deep voice is what got everyone's
attention. You know it's Fats in a matter-of-fact way when you hear
his music. It stands out for many reasons, the most obvious being
the latter points mentioned. This will take a better part of a morning,
afternoon, or evening to listen to. For me the afternoon was just
right to listen to Fats' rollicking free wheeling piano and honest
to goodness vocal style. The cover seems a bit cheesy for the scope
and importance of this set. It would seem to me that a nice black
and white shot of the man would have been more appropriate for the
occasion, yet a cartoon was chosen. It once again cheapens and down
plays how important this man's music was. That is the only dissatisfaction
that I had with this boxed set. Other than that I completely enjoyed
the trip down memory lane with Mr. Fats Domino.
Domino was a paramount composer, musician, and leader. He made some
of the most renowned and recognizable music ever heard. If you don't
have anything in your collection by this man…for shame! You can be
forgiven and repent, give penance at your local brick and mortar or
click and shop online. One listen to this collection and you will
be good for the week; those toes will not stop wiggling. Fats knew
how to boogie; do you want to learn how to cut a rug 50's rock 'n'
roll style? Here is your chance to become one with a legend. This
set is a prototypical testament to music that's as real as the person
playing it. Just pick up this wonderful memory of days gone by before
it becomes that, just a memory. The spirit of rock and roll will be
in your heart eternally after you listen to this…I promise. The music
lives on and so does the man.
|
