Seth Walker

(Hyena)

Making his debut on Hyena Records, co-founded by late Atlantic Records producer Joel Dorn and also home to Dale Watson, Seth Walker’s reissued fifth album highlights the local bluesman’s versatility. Opener “Change My Way” drives a solid blues boogie, but slices of smooth R&B sway “Steady” and the aching take of Dave Bartholomew’s “By the Water,” Walker channeling Ray Charles in his supple, steady range. Devastating Katrina ode “2 Inches Left to the Ceiling” serves as the poignant centerpiece, floodwaters rising with Ephraim Owens’ trembling trumpet as Walker grits, “The GI Bill and Jesus both split for higher ground, and I can’t find my way to the door.” Kim Wilson lays harmonica on Jimmy Reed’s “I Know It’s a Sin,” and Walker covers Tom Waits effectively with “Picture in a Frame,” though it’s originals like “Sun Down” that shine with their own promise.

***

This article appears in January 18 • 2008.

A note to readers: Bold and uncensored, The Austin Chronicle has been Austin’s independent news source for over 40 years, expressing the community’s political and environmental concerns and supporting its active cultural scene. Now more than ever, we need your support to continue supplying Austin with independent, free press. If real news is important to you, please consider making a donation of $5, $10 or whatever you can afford, to help keep our journalism on stands.

SUPPORT US

Doug Freeman has been writing for the Austin Chronicle since 2007, covering the arts and music scene in the city. He is originally from Virginia and earned his Masters Degree from the University of Texas. He is also co-editor of The Austin Chronicle Music Anthology, published by UT Press.