James Cotton

Don't complain that there are too many guests here -- that's what this jam was all about, inviting a bunch of friends and kindred spirits to jam in the studio during June of 2001. These musicians were here to salute not just the great James Cotton and his songs, but the long life of his classic James Cotton Blues Band, by playing some of their greatest songs and having a good time. And that's what this is -- a good jam session, performed with heart and vigor. Some of the guests might be a bit better than others, but the band is lively, there's more grit than you'd expect for an all-digital production, and Cotton has moments where he simply smokes. He's constantly a joy to hear; listen to how he breaks into "Jingle Bells" during "The Creeper" and try not to smile. Sure, this isn't the first James Cotton album you should get, or even the fifth, but if you've been a longtime fan, you'll have fun with this. ~ Stephen Thomas Erlewine, All Music Guide