Lazy Lester All Over You CD

The last time Lester released an album was 1988's Harp & Soul on Alligator, an uneven affair. This 1999 effort for Antone's is a vast improvement with producer Derek O'Brien providing linchpin guitar support and fronting a band that includes stellar contributions from Mike Buck on drums and Sarah Brown on bass. Although the intervening years have added a bit of rust to Lester's vocal chops, the added graininess just enhances the performances of old chestnuts like "Strange Things Happening," "If You Think I've Lost You," "Irene," "I'm a Lover, Not a Fighter," "I Need Money," and "The Sun Is Shining." The classic Excello is called on for most of the album but the big surprise comes with two solo performances by Lester, singing and playing guitar on Lightnin' Slim's "Nothing but the Devil" and Lonesome Sundown's "My Home Is a Prison." His most cohesive album since his first for Excello. ~ Cub Koda

Was #Wb 10042

Includes liner notes by Fred Reif.

Personnel: Lazy Lester (vocals, harmonica, guitar); Sue Foley, Derek O'Brien (guitar); Gene Taylor (piano); Sarah Brown (bass); Mike Buck (drums).

Living Blues (5-6/99, pp.58-61) - "...lean, economical sound that characterized Lester's best work....ALL OVER YOU sounds like all the participants were relaxed and having a good time..."