Walter Jr.: Louisiana Soul

A versatile stylist and soulful singer, Kerry Kearney is Long Island’s answer to Louisiana’s slide guitar wiz Sonny Landreth, who happens to appear as special guest on Walter Jr.’s Louisiana Soul (GatorTone 1003; 49:45). The Lafayette native brews up a compelling gumbo of swamp pop and roadhouse blues on originals like “Bad Whiskey,” “Hwy 90” and “Love Starved Louann.” Allman Brothers bassist Oteil Burbridge lays down a solidly funky groove on “What I Want” and Landreth turns in some brilliant dobro work on the swampy “Mama’s Kitchen,” a spooky hoodoo number reminiscent of Dr. John’s “Walk on Gilded Splinters.” The Muscle Shoals Horns punch up “She Ain’t My Neighbor” and “Hole in My Sole” and a rousing rendition of Bobby Charles’ ’50s hit “See You Later Alligator.” The always effervescent, ever-growling Walter Jr. offers his own take on “Bon Ton Roulet” with “Purple, Gold, Green.” Quintessential sounds from the swamps of Southern Louisiana.

Originally Published April 1, 2000