James Cotton - High Energy
Our Price: $29.75
Availability: Usually ships in 1-2 business days
Buy Used: from $27.97 (click here)
Category: Music CD
See more new music releases
Buy this Music CD at online store in your country
Canadian Music Store
Canadian Music Store
Music CD Cover
Artist: James CottonEdition: Music CD
Format: Import
CD Release Date: 1994-10-25
Music Label: Sequel Records UK
Free Music Notes for High Energy
Free Music Review: Not His Best, But Still Fun
Hit: 4 Stars
For a great many fans of James Cotton and his high energy harp playing, 1974's 100% COTTON represents the zenith of "Mr. Superharp's" recorded output. An intense, energized affair, with lots of fine blues and great harp playing, it's easy to see why 100% is considered one of Cotton's best. Given this popularity, it's somewhat surprising to find that the follow up to that album, 1975's HIGH ENERGY is a forgotten disc, rarely mentioned except by critics, who tend to malign it.
It's hard for me to write a fair of HIGH ENERGY because it's easy to be biased by one of two factors: 1) the number of negative reviews it has garnered; or 2) the fact that this was my very first blues album way back when I was a high school freshman. Nevertheless, after years of avoiding it, I have finally come around to writing a review of this disc.
After 100% COTTON, it would have been difficult for James to cut a disc which could equal the high standards set by that seminal album, and it is true that HIGH ENERGY is somewhat of a disappointment as a follow up. First and foremost, HIGH ENERGY definitely does not live up to its name; where 100% COTTON was very tight and energized, HIGH ENERGY is very loose and laid back album. The vast majority of the songs are of the midtempo variety; only "James' Theme" ever approaches the energy level of 100% COTTON. Many critics also objected to the hints of New Orleans funk and disco that were evident through much of the album.
Nonetheless, for those able to accept that this isn't 100% COTTON II and get into the mellower feel of this disc, there is much to enjoy about it. Cotton's singing is still strong and earnest, while he treats us to plenty of solid harp solos. The backing band is solid, providing a perfect foil for James to do his thing. The songs, while not all blues classics, are well written, containing a good natured feel. Frequently they're peppered with a dash of humor, and it's hard not to smile a bit when James sings about how much he loves "Chicken Heads" or the culinary/lovemaking prowess of his lady in "Keep Cookin' Mama". "Hard Time Blues" also scores with its tale of the once overlooked man now getting notice from a local woman. And, of course, there's the immortal "Caldonia," featuring James' rapid fire vocals and a few entertaining pseudo-voices.
Okay, so no matter how much nostalgic value this album has for me, I can't fairly call it the greatest blues album of all time. Nevertheless, its a worthy disc from James, no matter how much the critics rag on it. Just ignore the title and settle in for a nice, laid back session. I still enjoy it, and I hope you will, too.
Blues Music CDs
Music Genres
Top music charts in JAMES COTTON BLUES BAND
James Cotton Blues Band - Dealin' with the Devil: Best of James CottonRelease date: 1996-11-25; Music CD
Best price: $39.94
James Cotton - Feelin' GoodRelease date: 1997-10-27; Music CD
Best price: $10.93
James Cotton - Seems Like Yesterday : Collectors' ClassicsRelease date: 1998-05-19; Music CD
Best price: $9.08
Price in other shops:
James Cotton - Live at Electric LadyRelease date: 1994-10-25; Music CD
Best price: $87.11
James Cotton Quartetby James Cotton
Published: 2001; Music CD
James Cotton Blues Band - 100% CottonRelease date: 1993-01-12; Music CD
Best price: $39.95
James Cotton Blues Band - Cut You Loose!Release date: 1991-09-19; Music CD
Best price: $9.00
Price in other shops:
James Cotton Blues Band - High EnergyRelease date: 1994-02-07; Music CD
Price in other shops:
James Cotton - High EnergyRelease date: 1994-10-25; Music CD
Best price: $32.50
James Cotton - 3 Harp BoogieRelease date: 1994-06-21; Music CD
Best price: $4.30
Price in other shops: