Bobby Charles pioneered the musical genre known as "swamp rock" – he wrote the early rock'n'roll classic “See You Later, Alligator” (best known via the version by Bill Haley & the Comets). Another early gem penned by Bobby Charles was “Walking to New Orleans” as recorded by Fats Domino. He also appeared at the legendary “Last Waltz” concert in 1976 in which he performed “Down South in New Orleans” accompanied by The Band and Dr. John.
But the main reason that musicians like Andy Cabic of Vetiver sing his praises (and cover his songs) is for Bobby’s 1972 self-titled album released on Bearsville. Despite numerous CD reissues through the years, this is the first time in decades that the seminal album has appeared in its original vinyl LP format.
It's a real who’s who of classic "roots" rock – the album features 10 Bobby Charles classics supported by the likes of Rick Danko, Levon Helm, Garth Hudson, and Richard Manuel of The Band, longtime Neil Young sidekick Ben Keith, Bob Dylan’s former running mate Bob Neuwirth, session maverick Amos Garrett, the esteemed Dr. John, Geoff Muldaur, and several others.
But this is far from an all-star jam session; this is an ensemble record in the truest sense of the word with each musician simply supporting the Louisiana vibe that flows through the 10-song collection of country, blues, R&B, and folk that all have that distinctive Bobby Charles signature sound. The album also includes slow-burner “Street People” as featured on Country Funk 1969-1975, Volume 1.
Perhaps Dr. John said it best “I think all of Bobby’s songs have something to offer at all times, for all people.”
