Here’s the final recording by New Orleans legend Allen Toussaint. It’s an absolute beaut, and not just because it’s his adieu. The man that gave us such songs as “Yes We Can Can” and “Mother In Law” mixes originals with Americana in both solo and small group form. The recordings were made in both Toussaint’s home studio in New Orleans as well as in Los Angeles with a rotating range of Jay Bellerose, Charles Lloyd, David Piltch, Bill Frisell, Greg Leisz and even some cameos by Rhinnon Giddens and Van Dyke Parks. But none of that matters.
What matters is that Toussaint sounds like he’s giving you a history of American sounds by someone who believes in it and has lived it. For the solo readings, he takes you right into his parlor on a homey “Delores’ Boy Friend” and has a lovely gentlemanly flow on “Mardi Gras in New Orleans.” He shows that he still can stride right on “Big Chief” and taps into his inner Professor Longhair for “Hey Little Girl.” Small groups have him adding a funky backbeat to Bill Evans’ “Waltz For Debby” and sounds cozy on “I’m Confessin’” He displays old world charm on “Danza Op 33” and lilts on “Rosetta” while glowing on “Lotus Blossom.” A classic mix of foreboding and joy create a flavorful gumbo on “Viper’s Drag” and Rhiannon gets operatic on “Come Sunday” and earthy on “Rocks In My Bed.” It’s like Toussaint is taking you by the hand through various corridors of New Orleans, with one turn leading to church and the next to a juke joint. A top notch guide!
Nonesuch Records