Edgar for Johnny.
The Wintre brothers, born in Texas, USA to parents Edith and John II, are a visible part of the rock 'n' roll and blues world. Their popularity and image is due in part to their innate albinism, but their mark is unmistakable, mainly due to their instrumental prowess and originality of conception of the genre. They have always been very close, even if their paths have diverged several times. Now the brothers have reunited in an unusual way, on the occasion of a tribute album produced and recorded by the younger of the siblings, Edgar, for his brother Johnny (1944 - 2014), who died eight years ago. Released in April, the album contains seventeen tracks and lasts an hour and a quarter. The tribute to guitarist extraordinaire and distinctive vocalist J.D. Winter III brings together true blues greats such as Joe Bonamassa, Robben Ford, Kenny Wayne Shepherd, Joe Walsh, Steve Lukather, and many others. Rhythm is provided by Gregg Bissonette on drums and two alternating bassists, Sean Hurley and Bob Glaub. The album shows Edgar's affinity for the genre, but especially for his brother and his legacy. On some tracks he handled the vocals, on others he gave vent to his ability to play multiple instruments. True to Johnny form, Brother Johnny opens the album with the brisk Mean Town Blues (J. Winter) and is followed by one of the gems, Still Alive and Well (R. Derringer). The quieter Lone Star Blues with guest Kevin Moore (Keb´Mo´) is number three. Some classic tracks are masterfully handled, such as Berry's Johnny B. Goode, or Derringer's Rock 'n' Roll Hoochie Koo with its overly slick backing vocals. In addition to a number of covers, the album also included Johnny's originals. Guess I'll Go Away, I'm Yours and I'm Hers with Billy Gibbons, the excellent and pedalling Self Destructive Blues (guesting Joe Bonamassa) and above all the wonderful Stranger with Joe Walsh's sensitive and authentic guitar and Michael McDonald's somewhat academic vocals. Not to be missed are Winter's favourite Dylan song Highway 61 Revisited and Jumpin' Jack Flash by the Rolling Stones (guest Phil X). The final End of the Line is an epilogue (by Edgar Winter) that nostalgically concludes Johnny Winter's great ride through concert halls, stadiums and clubs around the world. I think Johnny would be happy for Brother Johnny and would thank Edgar for the album.
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