Nikki Sudden & The
Last Bandits
Treasure Island, CD (Rookwood 001)
Itīs very tempting to say that if
youīre only buying one record this year, Treasure Island is that one!
But Iīīll try not to use too many cliches here, though they seem quite
right when it comes to such good rockīn roll as this. This is Nikkiīs
ninth solo record and already hailed by many as his definitely best one.
I think Iīll join that league, though Iīm a huge fan of Red Brocade and
thatīs the one Iīve played the most hell out of, Treasure Island havenīt
left my stereo since it arrived two weeks ago! I take it everywhere, in
the car, to work, when Iīm visiting friends and itīs my companion during
sleep. Itīs the soundtrack to my dreams! Treasure Island picks up quite
rightly after Red Brocade, especially the ballads. Stay Bruised is one
of the most beautiful songs Iīve ever heard, itīs just what a broken
heart need. But Treasure Island takes off like a boozed-up party in
Looking For A Friend. What a smashing opener! Boogie-woogie like a Jerry
Lee Lewis maniac, and thatīs none other than Ian McLagan from the Faces
doing the piano. A pretty tough guitar riff sets the pace, remind me of
Stonesī Respectable, and no wonder either, itīs Dave Kusworth laying
down those good feelings. Ah rockīn roll through my veins, itīs better
than anything else! Itīs always a true delight to listen to Nikkiīs
songs but this time heīs gone over the top. From country ala Gram Parson
to slide guitar perfection in the very bluesy High And Lonesome (slider
Darrel Bath is present on six tracks), through gospel with the most
endearing church-choir to singing guitars in the adventurous title
track. Favourites? I guess they all are in their own way, though it
tickles all over as ex-Rolling Stone Mick Taylor makes love to his
guitar in House Of Cards. Itīs amazing how Nikkiīs sewn it all
together with all those brilliantly picked guest musicians. And all
honour to The Last Bandits, John Barry and Stephane Doucerain, they seem
like loyal buccaneers whoīll keep on searching for Treasure Island.
Maybe theyīve already found it, but thereīs always another one...
Ps: A big, big bonus for the exquisite digi-pack artwork. Breathtaking
really, so enjoyable to read those old-time blues adverts and fucking
great pictures! Canīt wait for the vinyl!
www.nikkisudden.com
26. july, 2004
**Ringo
Kid**