“Blues runs this House”, “There is a House in New Orleans”, “House that blues built”. At this point i've heard all the puns based on combinations of “House” and “Blues” when it comes to this album. But really this isn't House playing the blues. Its Hugh Laurie playing the blues.
Its also not what I was expecting. When actors play music there is always that “Don't quit the day job” mentality that people have in their mind, even before they've heard the first note. But reading the liner notes Hugh is already well aware of this. Which works in his favour. However trying to compare this to other actors turned musicians would be a mistake as this is something completely different.
If you remember Mr Laurie from the old days you will remember that he played the piano in some of his sketches, often while Mr Stephen Fry was mixing cocktails! So we already knew he could play but you've never heard him play like this.
As the album kicks off we are treated to a couple of minutes solo piano playing from Mr Laurie, whilst its beautiful I do get the feeling he's just trying to show us how good he is at playing. And who could blame him?
Then the surprise. That voice. Where did that come from? Its a Ray Charles mets Jamie Cullum kind of vibe. The advertisements suggest that this album is high energy, New Orleans jazz and for the most part that's true. As the album plays on we are introduced to some great brass playing arranged by music legend Allen Toussaint, however, that's not where the star cameos end. Dr John makes an appearance and the fantastic singers Irma Thomas and Tom Jones also add their own expertise of a couple of the tracks.
Highlights for me on this album are 'Battle of Jericho' which is an old gospel spiritual, covered many times in the past but this time given a new lease of life with a bit of Hugh's magic. Another stand out track is 'The Whale Has Swallowed Me'. Another old blues track that you may have heard before. Joe Bonamassa fan will certainly recognise it from his last album 'Dust Bowl'. This version is however, slightly different. A bit slower, less rocky but still brilliant.
Yes this album is defiantly one that should be in everyone's collection. But I would suggest filing it under “Expect the Unexpected”.
NOTE FROM THE EDITOR
We don't run any advertising! Our editorial content is solely funded by lovely people like yourself using Stereoboard's listings when buying tickets for live events. To keep supporting us, next time you're looking for concert, festival, sport or theatre tickets, please search for "Stereoboard". It costs you nothing, you may find a better price than the usual outlets, and save yourself from waiting in an endless queue on Friday mornings as we list ALL available sellers!
Its also not what I was expecting. When actors play music there is always that “Don't quit the day job” mentality that people have in their mind, even before they've heard the first note. But reading the liner notes Hugh is already well aware of this. Which works in his favour. However trying to compare this to other actors turned musicians would be a mistake as this is something completely different.
