Johnny Winter: Live at Rockpalast

Tall Texan Johnny Winter brings his rambling brand of blues-rock to Essen, Germany, in this 1979 Rockpalast TV-aired engagement filmed when the musician was on tour in support of 1978's White, Hot & Blue. Bassist Joe Paris and drummer Bobby Caldwell join the white-haired, nimble-fingered guitarist, who stalks the stage like a panther, blissing out for some bits, sitting down for others, and occasionally interacting with the boisterous crowd. Johnny is a decent but not great singer (less growling would be easier on the ears); fortunately, however, he prioritizes the instrumental passages over the lyrics here in a set heavy on classic blues tracks like “Messin' with the Kid,” “Hideaway,” “Walking by Myself,” “Suzie Q,” and “Jumpin' Jack Flash.” During the epic rendition of “Mississippi Blues”—the highlight of this nine-song (plus a medley) concert—Winter plays so fast his right hand becomes a blur, while Paris joins in on harmonica. Paris also solos during “Divin' Duck” and adds a growl-free vocal to “Rockabilly Boogie,” during which he and Winter play each other's instruments. Presented in Dolby Digital stereo, this is a strong optional purchase. (K. Fennessy)