Omar & The Howlers – Magic Man
2 CDs, 13 and 8 tracks/53 and 48 minutes respectively In an era where the raw, unfiltered essence of live music often gets lost in studio polish, Omar Dykes' latest offering serves as a potent reminder of the electrifying power of live blues rock. Emerging from a hiatus due to health challenges, Dykes not only announces his studio comeback but also gifts fans a time capsule of his band's heyday with a live album recorded in Bremen, Germany, in 1989. This two-CD set captures Omar and the Howlers in full throttle, offering a slice of blues history that's as vibrant today as it was over three decades ago.
The album kicks off with "Wall Of Pride," a track that embodies the band's gritty, high-voltage style, showcasing Dykes' distinctive, growling vocals and the band's tight, energetic instrumentals. The setlist is a rollercoaster ride of emotions, with tracks like "Don't Lead Me On" and "Loud Mouth Woman" delivering blues-infused narratives on tumultuous relationships, each song brimming with driving rhythms and fiery guitar licks.
A standout moment comes with the band's rendition of Jimmy Reed's "Down In Mississippi," a deep dive into blues' soul-stirring depths, featuring sultry guitar solos and Dykes' impassioned vocal delivery. "Dancing In The Canebreak" offers a momentary respite, slowing the pace but not the intensity, as Dykes' voice weaves through the melancholic melody, demonstrating his ability to evoke profound emotion.
The album is not just a homage to the blues but a celebration of its influence across genres. "Hoy! Hoy! Hoy!" transforms a classic R&B tune into a high-octane rock anthem, while the Howlers' take on Creedence Clearwater Revival's "Green River" injects an even grittier edge into the swamp rock classic, with Dykes' vocals and the band's robust performance creating a rendition that's uniquely their own.
"Funky Time" showcases the band's instrumental prowess, a groove-laden track that allows each member to shine, particularly highlighting the guitar work that is central to the Howlers' sound. The inclusion of "We Gotta Get Out Of This Place" further demonstrates the band's talent for reinterpreting classics, infusing the Animals' hit with a fresh, rollicking energy that's all their own.
The album culminates in a celebratory explosion of rock and blues with "Rock ‘n’ Roll Ball," a track that encapsulates the essence of Omar and the Howlers: unbridled joy, relentless energy, and a deep-rooted love for the music they create. It's a fitting end to a live set that not only showcases the band's prowess but also serves as a testament to Dykes' enduring spirit and his triumphant return to the music scene.
For fans old and new, this live album is a treasure, offering a glimpse into a moment when Omar and the Howlers were conquering stages across Europe, their music resonating with audiences far and wide. It's a reminder of the timeless appeal of blues rock and a celebration of an artist whose passion and talent have withstood the test of time. Dykes' return, both in the studio and through this vibrant live recording, is a beacon for blues enthusiasts, signaling the comeback of a true legend.