|
George Thorogood and the
Destroyers
George Thorogood and the Destroyers Move it On Over
(Rounder)
Review by Matt Robinson
 Though
George Thorogood may be known today as one of the standard bearers of the
Blues, the re-release of this early album demonstrates just how long he
has warranted such a role. Even when he was perhaps still too young to
know true pain, “Lonesome George” was able to grab hold of the Blues
reigns with his calloused hands and ride on the back of his musical
ancestors. While covers of Chuck Berry’s “It Wasn’t Me” and Brownie
McGhee’s “So Much Trouble” allow Thorogood’s rebellious nature, fleet
fretwork, and easy sense of timing to shine, Willie Dixon’s “That Same
Thing” suggests that the Delta may in fact stretch all the way up to
Dover. Though Thorogood was yet to admit to drinking alone, his up-tempo
rendition of “Cocaine Blues” reveals early run-ins with vice and the law.
From the steady crank of the title track to the equally classic cover of
“Who Do You Love?” and a pre-Stevie Ray rendition of “The Sky is Crying,”
Thorogood lays some of his best cards out in this early hand,
demonstrating the drive, grit, and sense of authenticity that has allowed
him to stay at the table for so long.
- Matthew S. Robinson
c. 2004, M. S. Robinson, ARR
|
