John Lee Hooker – Get Back Home In The U.S.A. (2xLP)

"Get Back Home" was recorded during Hooker's comeback in the '60s, it shows the bluesman in a solo performance and so the subtleties of his work most clearly.

The LP was recorded in France - apparently Hooker was a bit homesick, because the first song is called "Get Back Home In The USA" and describes in detail his return to the motherland as well as the joy of it in the boogie rhythm that was Hooker's trademark. After this brief sunshine, however, the mood turns more toward familiar spheres with the somberness of the slow blues "T. B. Is Killing Me" and the unbridled hopelessness of "When My First Wife Left Me."

Hooker has recorded this track frequently over the years, but this is one of the best versions, bluntly expressing deep shame and sorrow. Hooker's rough, biting guitar work has rarely been better, even "Boogie Chillen," recorded for the umpteenth time, shines with unusual verve.

With the six additional and strong bonus tracks, "Get Back Home" is an excellent introduction to Hooker's sultry, menacing world and a noble addition to any hardcore fan's collection.