"Face to Face" is a compelling collection of John Lee Hooker's final recordings, released posthumously in 2003. This album is a testament to the legendary bluesman's enduring legacy, featuring a blend of previously released tracks and unfinished material that he was working on before his passing in 2001. Compiled by his estate, with his daughter Zakiya Hooker at the helm, the album showcases Hooker's signature electric Delta boogie style, seamlessly fused with soul-blues elements.
The album spans a variety of blues sub-genres, including classic blues, blues rock, soul blues, country blues, and jazz blues, demonstrating Hooker's versatility and mastery of the genre. "Face to Face" features 15 tracks, including notable songs like "Big Road," "Dimples," "Loving People," and "Funky Mabel." The album also includes collaborations with special guests, such as the iconic Van Morrison, adding an extra layer of depth and richness to the recordings.
Recorded in June 2001, just before Hooker's death at the age of 83, "Face to Face" captures the essence of his late-career sound, reminiscent of his 1989 comeback album "The Healer." The album's backing vocals and instrumentation are provided by a talented ensemble, including Gail Benson, Terrance Kelly, Tina Bryant, and Joe Thomas, among others. With a duration of one hour and nine minutes, "Face to Face" offers a comprehensive and engaging listening experience for blues enthusiasts and casual fans alike.
Released on September 30, 2003, under BMG Rights Management (US) LLC and Eagle Records, "Face to Face" is a fitting tribute to John Lee Hooker's incredible career and enduring influence on the blues genre. The album's tracklist is as follows: "Big Road," "Dimples," "Loving People," "Face To Face," "Funky Mabel," "It Serves Me Right To Suffer," "Up and Down," "Mad Man Blues," "Six Page Letter," "Stop Jivin' Me," "Mean Mean World," "Turn Over A New Leaf," "Wednesday Evening Blues," "Boogie Chillen'," and "Rock These Blues Away."
Vinylscout