Jimbo Mathus - Blue Healer

Album download included

2015 release from the Mississippi-bred singer/songwriter best known for spearheading the alt-rock band Squirrel Nut Zippers.

From the blistering opener, the original "Shoot Out the Lights," it's clear that Jimbo Mathus will be laying on hands that have been sanctified by the spirits of all manner of Southern music. With the prodding of Bronson Tew's drums and and Eric "Roscoe" Ambel's guitar, Mathus confesses that he's the sort of person that trouble seems to find. It's the start of a loosely structured concept album that sees Mathus' protagonist counting up his sins, seeking the healing powers of the mystical title character, and questioning whether redemption can really even be had.

There are numerous musical threads woven into this album, often within a single piece. The lyrics, guitars and Tex-Mex sounds of "Mama Please" echo David Allen Coe, Merle Haggard and Doug Sahm. The invocation of "Blue Healer" suggests the hoodoo of Dr. John and the dark, melodrama of Screamin' Jay Hawkins. There's neo-psych guitar, an acoustic love song, spiritual New Orleans R&B, and even a great, noisy jam playing out "Bootheel Witch." This is music made by someone steeped in Southern styles; someone whose education was as much atmosphere as lesson plan.

Side 1

1. Shoot Out The Lights

2. Mama Please

3. Blue Healer

4. Sometimes I Get Worried

5. Ready To Run

6. Thank You

Side 2

7. Coyote

8. Bootheel Witch

9. Old Earl

10. Waiting On the Other Shoe to Fall

11. Save it for the Highway

12. Love and Affection

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