It’s uncommon for the old-timers of rock/pop to continue to release albums that sounds fresh. However Mac Rebennack (aka Dr. John) has managed to astound with his new album Locked Down – arguably his best LP since his 1968 debut Gris Gris. The album sounds as fresh as if it was released in the late 60s: organic, funky, eclectic and exciting.
This is in no small part thanks to collaborator Dan Auerbach (The Black Keys). Auerbach’s influence is clearly felt all over this album, with his trademark, bluesy and reverb-laden guitar featuring on most songs, and also his crisp production. The Black Keys’ guitarist cherry-picked a youthful, energetic band for this project.
Locked Down is more than a Dr John solo album; it is a collaborative effort that encapsulates the sound of both experience and fresh ideas, and proves that Rebennack still has much to give. It is sure to satisfy long-time fans of Dr John, and hopefully plenty of converts too.
By Brittany Chatburn
