Ike Turner & the Kings of Rhythm Here and Now (IKON)

Ike Turner & the Kings of Rhythm

Here and Now (IKON)

Everyone loves a good comeback, and Ike Turner, once near the top of everyone's shit list, is currently in the throes of a redemptive revival following a triumphant appearance at Antone's during SXSW 2001 that drew universal raves from visiting critics coast to coast. Now comes the much-anticipated release of Here and Now, Turner's first "proper" album in more than two decades and an affirmation that his Austin appearance was no fluke. You can't talk about Turner without acknowledging his incalculable contribution to the birth of rock & roll in his role as musician, songwriter, bandleader, producer, and talent scout -- all long before he ever teamed up with Ms. Bullock. He obviously brings a lot to the table, and fortunately Turner shares the bounty with us on this rock-solid offering. Immediately apparent is how well he integrates the traditional delta roots of his Clarksdale salad days with the funkier, uptown sounds of contemporary blues on tunes like "You Can't Winnum' All," "Gave You What You Wanted," and "I Need A-Nuddin'." Although not a bad singer, Turner was never really known as a vocalist per se, so it's no surprise to find him working out on four instrumentals that spotlight his double-barrel assault on guitar and piano. A stinging, whammy-barred guitar slinger and rollicking boogie piano pounder, Turner lets fly on "Baby's Got It," "Ike's Theme," and "Swanee River Boogie." A reprise of "Rocket 88," the Turner-produced milestone from 1951 and arguably the first r&r record, is icing on the cake although one wishes it rolled on long past its all-too-short 2:21 playing time.