Fevered anticipation surrounded the recording of roots music phenomenon
Nick Curran's third album and debut for Blind Pig Records. Attaching himself to such a pinnacle of mainstream
blues as Blind Pig seemed at first a mixed blessing. While it affords the ex-
rockabilly twanger greater visibility on a reputable
blues label, it nonetheless raised the fear that he may have been attempting some type of ill-advised commercial crossover. One listen to Doctor Velvet, though, and such fears melt away into pure joy. Perhaps "purist" joy would be more apt, as
Curran continues on his time-traveling
blues odyssey. Having already proven himself as the most worthy heir to the
texas blues throne -- or at least
Guitar Slim reincarnate -- Doctor Velvet finds the guitarist/vocalist channeling the spirits of
Albert King,
Freddy King and
Otis Rush in one long, funky burst of late-'50s and early-'60s
go-go blues ectoplasm. From the inspired reworking of
garage rock icons
the Sonics' "Shot Down" to the
Louis Prima-meets-
Fats Domino vocals on "Don't Be Angry,"
Curran has deftly expanded his vision. Throw in a cameo appearance by
Jimmie Vaughan on two tracks and Doctor Velvet packs some serious
blues mojo. The "State of Texas" sunglasses
Curran sports on the CD cover are merely an exclamation point. ~ Matt Collar, All Music Guide
