Robert Walter: There Goes the Neighborhood

San Diego native Robert Walter, a founding member of the Greyboy Allstars, is currently making inroads on the jamband scene with his own slamming, grooving brand of B-3. That danceable sound is best represented on There Goes the Neighborhood (Premonition 66917 90755 2 5; 49:07) by the super-charged title track, a super-funky rendition of “Wade in the Water,” a take on Willie Dixon’s “My Babe” and “The Tease.” Walter is ably supported in his funky cause by a cast of ringers including the great bassist Chuck Rainey, drummer Harvey Mason, guitarist Phil Upchurch and tenor saxman Red Holloway. Walter also has a nice Dr. John-ish turn on piano on the N’awlins flavored “Swap Meet.”

Originally Published May 1, 2002