Reviews (page 3 of 8)
Blues is boring. All sounds the same
A blues man. Would have been more interested in his older albums.
He's a legend - just, does this album bring something new to the table? Not really?
loved A Dream, the rest was okay 2.5
Slow-burning electric blues built on repetitive grooves, minimal guitar figures, steady rhythms, and deep, conversational vocals settles into a hypnotic but static flow. Listening feels like sitting in a dim room where the same phrase echoes again and again without ever quite evolving. The atmosphere is authentic and grounded, but the repetition makes the experience feel dull and ultimately boring.
8/10 Canción destacada: The healer (con Carlos Santana)
This album appears to be an exercise in making JLH’s music accessible to a mainstream audience. The collaborations are possibly quite telling in as much as they probably all were influenced by his work. He’s probably done better more pure blues work but this is a very listenable album
It did not stand out but was an ok album
John Lee Hooker is an American treasure.
It's good, for what it is, but I don't find it super interesting. A high two but not because i dislike it
Wasn't my favorite, but I like blues.
A nice, curious, surprise.
Wow amazing blues album! Really chill and amazing guitars!
Starting off with a Blues album which honestly is such a fucking vibe. I am excited to start this project because I just want to explore and experience more. It will add more joy to my life. I really enjoyed the album. Though it was so calming, I fell asleep
I can't act like this is a bad album, or even necessairly bad blues. I just don't think it's the best showcase for why John Lee Hooker is such a blues legend, what with its "and friends" approach. I mean, it'd be like if the only Santana album on this list was 'Supernatural.' I'm glad its success helped Hooker stay in the money in the latter period of his life, and I'm glad he's represented on this list at all; I just think one of his older records should've been included instead. One without as many guest stars, y'know?
Simply just some good ol' blues. 4.5 bumped down to 4.
I’m at a 3.5 that I’ll just barely bump up to a 4 due to the last 3 tracks clicking nicely. This did have some issues though. For most of the first 7 tracks, I do feel like John Lee Hooker is just adding some color & taking a backseat to a lot of his collaborators. Part of that is in his delivery; he takes more of a spoken word approach, never lifting up his voice too much to add some additional power to sell some of the emotions of the track. Part of that is in his rhythm; this isn’t a Muddy Waters sort of thing where he’s consistently hitting on the beat, but he’s just sort of playing around it. It’s an approach that has some merit, but it does make it hard to get a real feel for the vibe of the track. The biggest part of it, at least to my ears, is in the repetition of the instrumentation – the 1989 production standards that plagued part of Bonnie Raitt’s “Nick of Time” are here, mainly in that a lot of these first 7 tracks suffer from the “first minute” syndrome that stalls progression deeply. Between some unconventional delivery, a looser rhythm that doesn’t fully jive with the instrumentals, & some solid if stale instrumentals, it was hard for this album to really pull me. Out of the first 7 tracks, I only really enjoyed “The Healer”, “Think Twice Before You Go” & “That’s Alright”. There’s not really an outright bad track, but the other 4 just didn’t click for me. Those final 3, though… they clicked really, really nicely. John’s spoken word delivery puts him up close, & it feels a lot more forceful due to the more intimate tones of each track, allowing his age & sense of wisdom to carry more of a mood that helps the tracks out a lot. The rhythm is a lot easier to follow as well, since the instrumentals don’t hit the same ‘stale’ point – maybe the percussion on “My Dream” is a little sterile, but besides that, John’s approach to just kinda whacking all over his guitar feels more raw & authentic, and more distinctly like the blues he’s more famous for. The lyricism is strong, the vibes are really nice, and since they’re just easier to follow along & vibe to in a way that doesn’t feel as incessant as the looping instrumentals did earlier, they’re more fulfilling. Those final 3 tracks take this album from a competent, if flawed 3, to a competent, flawed, yet earnest 3.5 that I’ll bump up to a 4. I do think it’s worth a listen, and if those first 7 tracks click more consistently for others, I could understand a 5 here. If they hit even worse than they did for me, I could understand going as low as even a 2. For me, just a 4 – while I do wish one of his earlier albums were here, just for a comparison point, I am glad both he & this album are on the list.
I really liked it, I love blues and it reminded me of if muddy had made all of his song 8 years later, I mean why not I’ll save it it’s a great album
A well-made album, but not really my style. And don't come at me with those spooky hands.
Not my kind of blues. Don't like the unsteady rhythm. if, than slow.
Enjoyable listen but painfully generic sounding. It felt like I had heard every single song on this album before.
With an album output to match the likes of King Gizzard and the Wizard Lizard, it was nice to hear a snippet of John Lee Hooker's humongous discography. However the amount of collaborations on this particular album leaves me feeling as if I didn't get the best introduction to his music. Despite some nice moments on here, I did find myself a little bored at times. That being said, I can appreciate the artistry. Favourites: The Healer Think Twice Before You Go My Dream
A guy practices the blues with a microphone present
3.5 - Enjoyed a few of these songs thoroughly. Loved the grit, the blues, the boogie. Absolutely obsessed with the feeling and spirit of some of these songs. Fav songs: I'm In The Mood // Sally Mae // Rockin' Chair // No Substitute
Sounds like the soundtrack to a cheesy 80’s Tom Cruise film, that wouldn’t feel out of place playing in an American diner, as one of Quentin Tarantino’s characters walked in. Easy listen. Good atmospheric rhythms to fall asleep to!
Exceptionally boring, no tracks on this one stood out from one another for me.
#293/1001. Blues stripped to ita core, kicks out the jams compared to all the white mans blues wankings so far. Even the 80s sounds don't spoil it too much.
I love this record. It was one of my favorite of that time. A bunch of calibrations but it still has that old school blues & boogie woogie swing. But it also has a haunting John Lee Hooker. Older, wise & dropping knowledge. A must!
This was amazing, but seeing the reviews i have to listen to his other stuff. Low 4
After reading some of the recommendations to go back and listen to some other albums by JL Hooker, I can tell this one does not really belong here, given his fruitful career. Still a good blues album, though.
Blues, ok but lacking standouts 6/10
Не очень понял
This is supposed to be blues? Sounds like tacky, pseudo-tribal 80s production. It was fine, nothing I needed to listen to. 2*
I can't give this a 2 since it was kind of nice to hear him get to do the elder statesman thing with all the guests. But I will never like the blues.
Meh I thought this was a bit boring but wasn't offensive. The song with Santana was rubbish. Could be a 2 or 3 depending on what mood I'm in.
2,5/5
That’s a blues album alright.
Sort of good blues.
Un pedazo de embole
Frontloaded by a couple good tracks, but drops off later in the album.
Loved!
extremely overproduced
Incredible start to an otherwise good-ish album. Fav tracks: The Healer, My Dream
This album is fine, nothing outstanding or exceptional.
Not a huge blues person - from this I’d like to listen to more of his earlier stuff
Nice and chill blues almbum
This one was difficult to get through if you’re not into blues. That’s all I have to say on the matter. Every track, quite literally, sounded the same.
Never heard of this album before this and now I know why.
I find Blues such a strange genre. I should like it - I love The Blues Brothers, I love and play guitar, I appreciate the genre's history and that it was a stepping stone to Rock, and I love that it is a guitar based genre. But it's so limited. In the entire history of Blues, there's only about three different songs. Cut it up, slow it down, speed it up, throw flashy solos at it, play it with a sprinkle of culture from another region, but it's still those three same songs. The Blues only became interesting when it became Rock. John Lee Hooker is one of many titans of the genre. But is he so different from any other? Many accuse this album of being a sell out. I argue that it's an attempt to make a severely limited genre interesting. It fails, but it tries. Santana playing the Blues is a good idea, but the album doesn't progress past the opening track. An artist from every country bringing their own style and talent, with Hooker playing and singing in the background would have been better. Instead, this is a standard Blues album with the odd guest star. As limited as the genre is and as average as this album is, it's still better than whatever Country or Jazz nonsense the list is bound to throw at me again.
Was ok, but not really in the mood for blues today. Still a 3/5
kinda boring, not a big Blues guy.
Easy listening.
Not bad, but I won't seek it out
Kind of wild that this is the blues representation on this list. No Buddy Guy, SRV, Albert King. Hooker is no doubt a legend, but this record feels pretty watered down and commercialized. Honestly verging on boring. As a blues lover, this one was a tough listen honestly. So many better records to put on here, and this one just feels so phoned in and inauthentic.
Ok
Not for me.
This is pretty cool. A solid 3. Could get a higher rating with another listen
Liked the bluesy vibe, just sort of whatever
Starts off strong but quickly becomes the same song on repeat. Not bad, just not much I’d consider listening to again
I enjoyed this.
oooh miel des la première musique 🫦 seul point négatif c’est tjrs la même chose au bout de la 6e musique c’est bon
Thought I would like this more. This helped revitilize Hooker's career w/ all the guest artists on it. It was just okay blues stuff but not as good as his older work.
Very relaxed blues from a master
Blues for middle class white people. But shout out to Hooker for getting that bag. Definitely deserved.
This sounds like a more boring version of "Texas Flood" by Stevie Ray Vaughan. Maybe this is just what blues sounded like during this decade. Regardless, "Texas Flood" at least had some energy in its riffs and vocals, which is severely lacking in this album.
The first half I was feeling good about this album, but then I had to tune out because it was so boring.
Some cool features but it felt like pretty standard blues for the most part. It got worse as it went on. Rating: 1.7
Blues, 1989 -> 4
Great blues album. Don't think it's my favorite of all time but still incredibly good. 4 stars.
I wonder what prompted the creators of this list to include this record by a blues legend WAY out of his prime. If we're going to go with legends way out of their prime, we've got to go with Floating Points and Pharoah Sanders' Promises, right?
first time listening to this. I'm not huge into blues - much prefer to experience live than to listen to studio recordings. I'm not familiar with the studio recordings of John Lee Hooker, but I can't imagine that this LP is his definitive album or even in the top 5. you can tell this was recorded in the late '80s -- awful studio sheen and everything feels sterilized within an inch of its life. fun fact -- John Lee Hooker played his first live gigs at a now-closed bar a couple blocks from my house in Detroit (Apex Bar). apparently his song "Boom Boom" was written about the doorman at the bar.
I love the influence that blues has had on rock and modern, americana country. However, I've never really been down the blues rabbit hole. Was distracted during the first half and they kind of blended together (other than maybe the first song with Santana). Last half, I was more intentional with my listen and really enjoyed it. Took me to a rocking chair on the front porch of the McCaughan home in Crossett, Arkansas with my great grandfather and Mr. Hooker. Though my grandfather would probably have rallied the town to torches and pitchforks seeing a black man act so familiar... I wonder what Eric will give this album 🤔 3.7/5
We’re on a mission from god I thought I recognized this guy from the Blue Brothers. I feel like i will never not enjoy blues, even if it’s very amateur sounding. There’s just something about the instrumentation where you don’t even need lyrics as long as you take it in. I wouldn’t say every song on this album is my jam, but man the album as a whole sounds good. Those are some great vocals and I love that electric guitar in songs like Cuttin Out. I feel like something would have to go horribly wrong for me to rate a blues album lower than 3, which definitely isn’t the case this time.
It's blues. The most blues blues I've heard in a while.
Reminds me of Hard Again by Muddy Waters: late career blues album by an absolute legend, reestablishing his career and reaching a whole new generation of fans. This one has good collaborations with a bunch of well known artists: Santana, Bonnie Raitt, Los Lobos, Charlie Musselwhite, Robert Cray, and others. Fun fact: Jodi and I saw Los Lobos and John Lee Hooker at the Riviera on the subsequent tour. We don't remember who opened for who... I grew up only knowing John Lee Hooker from the Maxwell Street scene in The Blues Brothers (Boom Boom Boom Boom...). After this album and tour, I searched out more, way more. Again, one of the legends! Second fun fact: first electric guitar I ever bought was an Epiphone Sheraton II, because John Lee looked so cool with his. Still have it! I think this type of collab success on the starting of the producer, in this case Roy Rogers, a guy I'd never heard of. But they pulled it off. I'm In The Mood went on to win a Grammy for traditional blues, album sold a ton and John Lee was fixed for the rest of his life.
This album’s good, I just don’t really want to be listening to it. It’s just not my thing. It would maybe groove for a second and then it felt like the songs just went nowhere from that initial hit. I’m giving it a 3 but it’s a low 3 for me.
It's crazy that he was 73 when this came out, especially considering it was the most successful release of his career. I wasn’t too impressed with it at first when things kicked off with the title track, as it felt like an 80s modernization of his sound, but as things shifted to a more old school blues style I began to enjoy it a lot more. Hooker sounds great by his own, especially his vocals, but the guest musicians really help make this album stand out. Though I didn’t care for the backing music on The Healer, the guitar work is a highlight, and the slide guitar on Sally Mae is absolutely excellent. Ultimately, I want to like this more. It's got lots of soul. Everything is recorded and mixed well. It sounds like it was a really fun record to make. Unfortunately, the blues just aren't my thing. I know it's not an album trying to break barriers, it's a style that's been done a million times before, but only occasionally has it been done this well. Though, I can appreciate how good it is even if it's not my thing. Did I need to hear this before I die? No, but I'm sure some did.
Very good blues album. Excellent performances and really like his voice.
Nice bit of blues. Impressive list of collaborators.
Looking at the set list here really provides a murderers row if heavy hitters. Los Lobos, Santana, Bonnie Raitt, (though not my fav) George Thorogood, and of course the blues legend Hooker as the anchor. Now I'm not a blues aficionado, but I certainly enjoy more than the average person. Starting out this is just a really nice blues album, but as time goes on and you stick to that typical Blues rhythm, it gets a little redundant. Was fun but only so fun
loved this, so chilled, so easy to listen to, can't help but tap your feet throughout - nothing jumping out as mind bending, but just great throughout
i fuck with the blues heavy
The absolute blues guitar master. My goodness, the tone he gets out his instrument. And the emotion he conveys in his voice. Then, of course, are the wonderful guests on 6 of the 9 tracks on this album. Nothing but 5s here, baby.
A little long. Not my favourite blues on this list so far.
It’s okay
Nice laid back bluesy vibe although (this may be heresy but) I found it a bit formulaic...
This was fun. Every album should feature a funky flute and every album should feature Bonnie Raitt.
No sé cómo empezó, pero a finales de los 80 hubo una moda de música Blues y guitarristas recuperados como B.B. King o John Lee Hooker. La verdad es que no me disgusta, pero tampoco me apasiona. El disco me ha resultado entretenido, aunque no me guardo ninguna canción como favorita. Sería un 2,5 pero lo subo a 3.
Would give it 5 stars if it had "Blues Before Sunrise"
Hmm
Just alright for me today, the backing bands were great and JLH is always good but this album was just alright for me.
Snoozefest. Of all the possible John Lee Hooker albums to put on the list, why this one? There's no vitality to any of the collaborations, despite the pedigree of the collaborators. It's not terrible enough for 1 star, but I can't go higher than 2 stars.
From what I can tell, this album is not a good representation of John Lee Hooker, and its inclusion on this list is unfair to him. I don't know much of John Lee Hooker's work except that he was excellent in The Blues Brothers, but from what I've come to understand he was an absolute legend in the blues world. It's a shame his only inclusion on this list is an album of collaborations, and reportedly not his best work. That's not to say this was bad - it was alright, it just wasn't necessarily a must hear album.
This was enjoyable but repetitive. This was enjoyable but repetitive. This was enjoyable but repetitive. This was enjoyable but repetitive. See how annoying repetition can be? On an initial listen, this definitely has a bit of a late 80s bent to it which I kind of dug. However, I found a good amount of these songs were pretty repetitive, going on a minute or two longer than they should. Truth be told, I would rather listen to Muddy Waters, Stevie Ray Vaughan, Mark Knopfler, and even John Hyatt and some others than this. It's ok. Not great.
Kul, blues, mislim da? Pri prvem komadu ("The Healer") je zraven Santana, kar bi vsak loh pogruntal, brez da prebere credits. O, Bonnie Raitt poje na drugem komadu ("I'm In The Mood")! Dan 8 je bil njen album. Ta je bl bluesovski mi, kot pa prvi. Hmmm, mal me ne potegne. Pač, zveni k vsak blues k sm ga do zdej slišala. "Rockin' Chair" mi je kul, k je sam Hooker pa kitara. Pa "No Substitute". I guess blues ni tok my thing.
Good old Blues. Love it!
Better than Coldplay
See album oleks revolutsiooniline, kui see oleks tehtud kuskil seal 40ndate-50ndate kandis. Aga see on hoopiski 1989. a plaat ja selleks ajaks ei olnud need kõlad enam huvitavad. Kui keegi mängiks mulle selle albumi laivis ette praksuva lõkke saatel, siis see oleks ikka päris eriline. Aga tagantjärgi seda kuulates on see pigem "meh". Ilus blues, aga puudub erilisus. 2.9/5
solid blue rock album
A few days ago, I had Muddy Waters' Hard Again here on this list. As The Healer, Hard Again was a later album by that artist, and that was a real Blues album. This one is a much more modernized, but also soft-washed version of Blues, and not to its benefit.
This is like Hooker’s Last Waltz… but more like a strut.
Great blues guitar, not so great singing. Legendary personnel though
one of those things i wouldn't mind seeing live just for the vibe but probably won't be returning to it
Album 1037 of 1089 The Healer - John Lee Hooker (1989) Rating : 4 / 5 This is just a really solid blues album from start to finish. Nothing flashy, nothing forced - just a master doing what he does best. The performances are tight, the production is clean without being overpolished, and that guitar work carries the whole thing exactly the way you’d hope it would. What stands out most is how effortless it all feels. Hooker doesn’t sound like he’s trying to prove anything here - he already knows who he is. The grooves settle in quickly, the vocals are confident and relaxed, and the whole album just rolls along in a way that makes it easy to sit back and enjoy. It’s not an album that demands deep analysis or constant attention, and that’s actually part of its strength. You put it on, let it play, and you’re rewarded with a consistently strong, enjoyable listen from one of the greats. Blues done right.
Absolutely amazing.
This feels like a benefit album to help John make some cash later in life which I fully support. That being said, I didn't need to hear it.
I was so excited to see this album show up this morning but was disappointed. It was good but blues "light". I did like the collaborations with other artists but was missing a bit of its soul. I give it a 3.
Very laid back, chilled blues. I can’t lie, I was vibing a lot during this. Nothing particularly revolutionary but a solid little album from a guy who sounds like he’s been around. 1950-60s Southern US blues vibes always is a hit with me, even if the songs start sounding similar to each other towards the end. 6.5/10
Its OK. I like the blues, but would not consider this a top 1001 albums of all time.
“Hooker is “In the Mood”, what should I do?” “Get me Bonnie Raitt.” What triangulation of Hooker-loving or Hooker-hating led to this being his single album on here? I own two better collaboration albums with him (“Hooker N Heat” with Canned Heat and “…And Seven Nights” with the Groundhogs), and that’s practically by accident. Yet the voice and songs win through, particularly with the end stretch. And this is a faithful artifact of its shiny time, Santana the right choice to set the glossy tone.
A good example of the (pre-Rubin) trend for distinguished elders making a late-in-life comeback by collaborating with trendy disciples, facilitated by senior A&R execs aiming for a Grammy lifetime achievement award and/or a beer commercial (I wonder if "Mystery Girl" is on here, probably the best of the genre). This is pleasant and well-produced, but not very exciting. Still, as the Wikipedia notes, JLH got a big paycheck so it was probably all worth it.
Didn't enjoy this at all. Pointless noodling and mumbling. Some nice harmonica. But no thanks
Not a fan of blues in generally, but i can be swayed occasionally. Not this time though - this album, the production, the featured artists (Bonnie Raitt a notable exception) and the arrangements all leave me cold - it's a 5 star for a guitar shop employee I'm sure, but a 2 from me.
Oh yeah, this music has real soul.
Really liked this one. Think all the collaborations are really fun. Just a good time. A good mix across the album which is helped by all the different people on it. His voice is really nice. Fav song: I’m In The Mood Least fav: My Dream
Liked the guitar and his voice but some songs were unstimulating at best. Specific rating - 3.8 Fav song - the healer Least fav - my dream
Find the album art a bit spooky. Honestly I got a bit bored of listening to this album and some of the songs started blending together. He's got a nice voice though! Favourite song: I'm In The Mood Least: The Healer
I generally don't have a problem with blues, but this album didn't really do anything for me. It may just be a symptom of the sterile late 80's production, but very few tracks had the trademark edge of the best blues projects. Easily the best part of this album is John Lee Hooker's performance; he still has the vocal chops of a classic blues moaner. Very relaxed and inoffensive, but not the worst thing I ever heard. Standout Tracks: The Healer, Think Twice Before You Go, Sally Mae Score: D
I wasn't sure what to expect. But after the 80s sheen that's applied to the first track it settles into a lovely, rambling Blues record. And I'm totally in the mood for a lovely, rambling Blues record.
Ultimate dads album
Listen to this album, not the immature garbage reviews. Collaborating to share music with a wider audience isn’t selling out. John Lee Hooker is exceptional and so is The Healer.
Had a lot of fun with this one. I'm just kinda getting into the Blues genre and this was a good way to get a few different vibes, as there's a lot of features on this album. Overall I'd say I quite enjoyed it and will be listening to more of Mr. Hooker.
A really good blues album. Some great performances on here.
Blues wants to be live, really enjoyed the parade of guest artists. 5 for the legacy, 3 for the album/
Interesting mix of music. 7/10
This album starts off REALLY strong with the Santana feature, really liked the next few songs too. But then it fades off into nothingness. Felt as if all the instruments got taken away one by one, and by the end of the album it was just Johns voice with a Hi-hat and bass drum left... Great voice and all, but the back half of this album is truly what boring music sounds like. The songs where he doesn't have anyone else featuring are prime to put you to sleep. Not a good thing when the only time the music really dips is when there's no backup from other musicians. Apparently John Lee Hooker is a blues legend, so I will have to check out his other music as I'm sure he has some good stuff. But this album was a real snoozer overall (other than the mentioned tracks). 6.5/10
John Lee Hooker was a widely influential blues musician and he had plenty of great 60s and 70s albums. This late 80s album with other guest stars was commercially succesful but not as great and influential as many of his previous releases. The 2 star goes to the fact that the wrong album was chosen, not for the artist itself.
Great album and especially loved the song The Healer!
decent blues
there are way better John Lee Hooker albums
I quite liked it. Bluesy, not what I would normally pick to listen to - but sat through the album and didn't skip or want to skip once. Only 3 stars because I don't think I would pick it up and listen to it again off my own back.
I really like Blues. I think I would like other albums by John Lee Hooker, but not this one.
Why this one? This is not really a John Lee Hooker record. It's a bunch of other stars playing a collab. Sure, it charted. I'm very glad he got commercial success with it. That shouldn't be why this was chosen over his previous 40+ years of output. Pick any of his records from the 1960s.
A solid electric blues showing from one of the great bluesmen, with plenty of features supplementing the tracklist. However, it's a bit past the prime of the genre to truly capture what the greatest blues recordings do.
Interestingly I liked the tracks with other artists more than the slower solo traditional blues ones at the end. It started off probably giving me unrealistic expectations with the Santana feature, then had some good songs but eventually lost steam. Given that I just heard B.B. King’s Live at the Regal the day before this, I wasn’t suuuper impressed, but it was fine, and given that he’s one of my dad’s favorite artists I’m going no lower than a 3.
Not even Santana could save the blues for me, Hooker's style is just too droning for my taste. He caught my attention on the few times he channeled Isaac Hayes and turned up the funk a bit, but outside of that the album is wholly unremarkable. Standouts: Cuttin' Out • That's Alright
I felt really positive about this album from the first two tracks but it lost my attention after and started blending together. He gets overshadowed by Santana and Bonnie Raitt and the feature by Los Lobos was wasted in my opinion.
It’s ok
Not bad. Reminded me of Sinners.
The Healer by John Lee Hooker is a more modern take on Blues by a Blues legend. I didnt enjoy this album, After the first track I felt I was on track to give me third 1/5 in a week. The album however did pick up and had some nice moments like Rockin chair and My dream. The Healer is a good intro into the blues music genre before digging deep into the history of earlier artists and albums. As a blues Alum in its own right I feel the colaborations made this more mainstream than John Lee Hooker would have wanted it and made it a very soft album. They clearly wanted this record to do commercially well. Favourite track: Rockin Chair is a more traditional blues number. I really enjoyed it. Least favourite track:I found the Healer title track to be one of the most boring songs I have ever heard. Album artwork: Strong album cover
Pedestrian blues. With celebrity appearances.
Well I feel MUCH better now, thanks
zanimljivo, nije me mnogo interesovalo ne secam se nijedne pesme jbg rocky izbacio album, ali secam se da su kul instrumenti i da je dosta otvoreno
As someone with only the most vague knowledge of JLH, this makes me want to listen to more of his stuff. He seems like a pretty cool bluesman, and I enjoy his style. I don't think this was a stand-out-great album or that the collaborations added a lot to the experience, but I did find it worth a listen. At the least, it introduced me to someone I've heard of yet never really heard. Overall: 3.3/5
Cool, not for me
Ik hou wel van blues maar dit is het niet. Veel matige collabs en niets wat er echt uit springt.
De blues heeft mij helaas niet geheald, ik had al een slecht voorgevoel toen ik t eerste nummer hoorde met Carlos Santana. T album bevat boomer-muziek in de slechte zin van het woord. Erg voorspelbaar en oninteressant. Wel credits voor Bonnie Raitt, vind haar wel vet, John Lee hooker heeft ook wel een goede stem. Verder mag dit album van de lijst. Oja, lelijke albumhoes
Just okay.
NO SUBSTITUTE PEAAAKA
a good introduction to blues music
This is not my style of music. It was a decent listen but didn’t love it.
Very listenable.
Far from the best John Lee Hooker, but John Lee Hooker nonetheless.
As a music lover I really should have a JLH album in my collection and this one would serve that purpose. He is an amazing talent and when you think of famous American deep blues players, along with B B King, he is the one who springs to mind. Some exquisite guitar playing make this an excellent album. 3/5 11/1/26
Blues soundtrack for an 80's porno.
Quintessential Blues
meh, it’s cool but not my style
Hooker is the kind of artist I'd figure would be on this list but would've thought it would be a 50s album rather than 80s. Pretty cool at any rate
I questioned how much I would like this album going in, but I love some good blues, especially on a cold day where I’m feeling a bit under the weather. Nothing like some good calming blues to make you feel seen.
Liked the Boogie Blues However, I'm guessing a different Hooker album then a late-career 80s one would have been a better choice for the book Nonetheless, I enjoyed this. 4/5
Good album. Fades a bit towards the end
Groovy dudes groovin throughout.
Really enjoyed this blues album. Listened to it twice.
Can't beat a bit of proper blues. John Lee Hooker has some bangers, good few on this album too
No el mejor disco de John Lee Hooker, pero siendo él, aún así es tremendo. Gran ejecución de blues, la voz incomparable de Hooker y una que otra canción extraña por ahí, pero un álbum que se disfruta sin problema. Eso sí, creo que tiene muchos considerablemente mejores.
Very interesting sound, although is not fully my thing, but I really enjoyed something actually new because I’ve NEEEVER heard of this album
I don’t like the blues, but still I don’t get why JLH’s only album on the list is one full of collaborations, and not one of his original music. I wouldn’t like it anyway, just questioning the list. As I thought, I didn’t like this one bit, except for the track with Bonnie Raitt, which was decent. The worst tracks were, ironically, the last ones where he played alone.
Good collaborations and great guitars
Perfectly fine music, nothing especially exciting
Holyyyy shiiiit this was awesome. The features are so good too, I got a mad case of the blues
I don’t actually think its that bad but it’s not for me
Listened Before: No Sorta sounded the same throughout, but that's not necessarily bad. Bro was 73 cashing in on a career of being a blues legend... Was pleasant to listen to but sometimes I struggle with old dudes voices. 3/5
Blues can be incredibly moving, soulful, touching, inventive, and emotive. It can also be humdrum, run of the mill, basic and fun. This is the second. It's entertaining but it's not engaging in any other way besides text book blues.
Quite boring and generic. Did nothing for me
That was nice
The last three songs are the best here. The rest is ok but they do not show what Hookers music was all about.
Pretty almighty
sex music for 50 year old white men with 23 year old filipina wives
I wanted to like it, but frankly, it was boring
I liked the 1st track the best (the title track The Healer). After that I wasn't really as in to it
2 blues albums back to back is crazy. Shoutout santana
Funky. I wouldn't necessarily listen to it in my free-time, but I liked it nonetheless. Strong start of the album, but after a while, they lost me a bit.
More of a collaborative album. Made him mainstreamed for money, I’m guessing.
What's the point? An artist past his prime in a genre past its prime, which wasn't that interesting to begin with. The cast of collaborators is alright, but is not enough to keep from being bland and utterly forgetful.
Too spiritual for me
I like the blues.
I like some of his other records more
These slick late 80s and 90s legendary all star collab albums always feel flat to me. There are some good ones, no doubt, but so often they are somewhat sterile and middle of the road and this one wasn't much different. The songs are pleasant. The pairings are fantastic. But there is something missing. If it was recorded in a dingy bar at 3am, it would be there. No knock. The last couple solo songs are great. But this feel flat.
Just really boring. Blues gives big divorced dad vibes.
Enjoyable but unsure if I’ll visit again.
I didn’t enjoy this.
John Lee Hooker is one of the all time greatest blues men. I listened to a ton of his stuff back in the early nineties and am amazed little disappointed in myself that I never happened across this album. That said, I much prefer his older material. While this is still excellent, it definitely has the feel of something that was much more produced than his earlier work. I am very happy, however, to find out that this album allowed him to enjoy some financial security that he should have enjoyed decades earlier. And although this wasn’t my favorite of his work, it’s still John Lee Hooker, and that man deserves every star I can give.
Classic blues. Decent listen but can’t believe it blows anyone away
ROCK AND ROLL BABY 3.5
I am by no means that knowledgeable about the blues but Not sure this is how I would represent John Lee Hooker, guess it has a “modern” sound and the draw of collaboration. So works as introductory/ main stream cross over, maybe. It is good I guess, but just seems to be missing that spark. Don’t know if this is his only album on here and if so would have preferred something a bit rawer, earlier. 3 Star
There is a nostalgic quality to John Lee Hookers voice that feels comforting and commands focus. This isn't an album one can easily passively listen to. There is a difficulty in digesting this album, however. I admire the roots of the songs, but I cannot find myself listening to them again on my own. I can hear the riffs that are foundational to starting new genres, but I can't shake the feeling of how "old" it all sounds. I think I will need some more exposures to Blues music in order to really understand what is successful here and what isn't
how much do i wanna give a fuck?
I wasn’t in the mood for this I guess. I usually like blues but I wasn’t feeling this
Not my style, was fine.
Better than I thought but 1989 production isn’t ideal.
Decent
Bluesy blues
Gorgeous and chilled acoustic guitar & vocals blues
Couldn't get through one song.
It’s ok.
Not my fave blues album but a solid effort nonetheless
Retomamos el reto después de algunas idas y vueltas con John Lee Hooker, artista que ubico de nombre y seguro de alguna que otra canción, pero del que no he escuchado discos. Disco de blues muy de la época en que salió (fines de los ochenta), donde se buscaba generar cruces por la World Music o que artistas históricos de géneros troncales hicieran colaboraciones con artistas más contemporáneos. Sin más para agregar, me despido hasta mañana.
6 / 10
Some great blues music from a legend of the genre. I enjoyed this album and look forward to listening to more JLH if the project sends it my way.
This album is incredibly soulful, and also quite boring. I feel guilty for saying that, but I didn't find it exciting at all. The song My Dream was wonderful. Outside of that, though, I didn't find a lot to like here. Too monotonous for me. I feel like a stupid asshole for this review, but I gotta speak my truth!
Saved three songs that I like a lot! Maybe a three overall, but four because things got hot and It’s Alright is hot and you are hot
The blues is where it's at. I was surprised at how good this album is. I'm also surprised John Lee only has 1 album on this list. Dude was a blues master.
Esto sí
I smile and now I will seep calm
Starts badly with the very 80s The Healer with Santana. It's got some good bits, but John Lee Hooker must have better candidates for this list than this album!
Very good bluesy funk oldies album
Gear: DCA ÆON 2 Noire Artwork: 🖐️🎩🖐️ Production: 🎧😘🤌 Music: 🎸👥😐 Rating: 👤👤👤/5
OK. 2/5
Great album! Some good blues!! Haven’t heard good blues since. I like the scruffy voice, the guitar work, the nice rhythm. All around great album.
Like a dialed down, slower Santana. Just fine. Will not revisit
What I have learned in my journey of listening to Blues music is, I really only like it in 2 ways. 1. Live albums 2. Blues fusion. This is neither, and because of that, its not really my thing.
It's a solid album by one of the blues greats. It's not as innovative or engaging as his earlier work, but it scratches the itch.
Great album of old school blues performed by a master in his later years. Almost as though he made this album just to be able to work with some of the other great artists he brought in for this.
nice enough
It’s too commercial for me. Not a fan of blues rock. And there is better out there anyway.
Loved this album. Blues stuff always gets me.
Pretty standard stuff, nice to listen to from JLH
Outside of my general listening but a great blues feel and quality collaborations.
I was psyched to see the collaborations on this one, but i didn’t enjoy any of them nearly as much as the last three songs.
I was worried when I listened to the first track and I thought it was going to be an awful album because that chintzy 80's production just doesn't work for John's vocals. Thankfully, it got much better. The last few tracks where it's just John and not guest stars are really good. Unfortunately, a lot of these older blues artists were basically releasing singles instead of actual albums during their peak periods, so they've been represented on this list by later output that doesn't show them at their best.
Tubeless and dreary.
helt ok
This album has a great ensemble of guests, but I was bored by it. This style of music doesn't get me going. 2
I know John Lee Hooker is an iconic bluesman, but I struggled to stay interested in this one. Though I liked his descending vocal riffs on his songs,.(that seemed pretty effortless for him) they started to feel a bit repetitive and some of the songs were a little too talk/singy for me.
John Lee Hooker rules but this wasn't great.
The songs were polished enough to really grab your attention. I had no idea this guy made a music video. He definitely rocks.
Some considerable talent on this. Should be a slam dunk but the Santana song was a bit meh for me. I liatemed to again second time and think it was too much Santana (in which case listen to a Samtana album) and not enough JLH. Bonnie Raitt’s song was a bettwr balance. Baby Lee soulful. Cuttin’ Out with Canned Heat rocked, with amazing harp sound. But is this the album of John Lee Hooker you must hear before you die? He has so many. Man was prolific. The closing tracks are just him. The rest are John Lee Hooker but not - the Santana one sounds like Santana. The canned Heat one, canned heat. I omgime if you are a Santana fan and a JLH fan, you are in heaven on that song. What about the others? Its not an uneven album though. I guess JLH gives a spine that runs through it all. I think the reason this album confuaes me is that I want desperately to see it as a 5 atar album, i like Samtana, I like Canned Heat, robert Cray, Charlie Musslewhite, etc, but it doesnt grab me that way.
First off, you should be tried at the highest court for putting Santana on your opener and letting us think the rest of the album would follow the same quality. Despicable. Second, all the best blues was written 40 years before this album, and some of it was by this very guy. The Healer doesn't bring anything especially exciting to the table. It's just fine.
the healer- 6 im in the mood- 5 or 6 baby lee- 5 cutting out- 5 think twice before you go- 5 sally mae- 5 thats alright- 5 rocking chair- 5 or 6 my dream- 6 no substitute- 5
This album is a bit of a travesty due to the collaborators and dodgy production. Clearly a cash grab, although Hooker probably deserved it. Not sure why it’s on this list rather than a proper Hooker album.
Album #971 Highly acclaimed blues guy, but just sounds average to me.
John Lee Hooker's great This is a collaboration album that is overproduced, but some tracks—particularly the one with Bonnie Raitt—are particularly strong. The last few tracks are Hooker alone, and that sounds magnificent.
I listened to this album on the plane. It was okay music, although sometimes a bit plain.
Never trust an art major's math, but I hope John Lee Hooker got paid well at 77 years old for this album. He'd be gone from the earth 12 years later. JLH should be celebrated for his contributions to music well before this concept record (but I'm too lazy to look up if another record is in this list). I have to say, it's a little uneven in places but that's expected from the conceit of pairing Hooker with different artists/stars across the songs selected for the album. Overall, though, the listen ain't bad.
It’s a nice blues album. Nice arrangement and production is good too. But not my favourite type of music that I can resonate with. This album gives me a similar feeling when I first heard of grafting… it works.. and should probably be impressive, but I am also not very sure at the first glance…
There’s something about classic blues that feels nostalgic. Even though it’s not a genre I typically rock with or even grew up on, just hearing it in this Robert Johnson, deal with the devil at the crossroads way brings me back. To where I cannot say. But it feels like a necessary return for anyone on a musical journey to be reminded of where so much rooted from.
old school blues albums rock. i actually really dig listening to the blues, and it was one of the genres i listened to a ton when i was playing guitar. i think its so easy to sit back and listen to this type of music. its such a good form of story telling, that can get as simple or complicated as you would like. overall, i definitely appreciate the exposure to this album and really enjoyed it. definitely see myself throwing this on when the mood strikes
Great vibes and features from legendary artists. Its definitely not a genre I could listen to all of the time but would hit the spot in certain moods. Will be looking through his discography in the future.
A solid blues album. I really like his voice and his style, but I got pretty bored during some of the slow songs. This would be an easy four if I could cherry pick some of the more upbeat songs, but then I guess it wouldn't be a blues album then would it?
Tiene un sonido tremendamente actual. Muy buena producción y un trabajo de guitarra muy meritorio.
Not a good time for music production. The 80s echoey thin production sucked the soul out of this
Good blues album. Music that makes you want to move. But not really attention-holding for me
Do t mind a bit of blues
Was this a reasonably enjoyable listen? Yes Could I really tell the difference between most tracks? No Does that matter? Not really Will I ever listen to this album again? Probably not
Hard to dislike this as it is very easy listening and inoffensive. A sort of watered down version of blues that I found pleasant to listen to.
Great voice, nice guitar. But it’s hard to get overly excited about the Blues (or this slightly oddly adulterated 80s version). It had its very important place in time and rock history.
This is fluffy, house-trained blues that will water your plants when you go on holiday. John Lee Hooker deserves to be on this list, but not with this limp, overproduced blues collection.
не зашло.
I would have expected an album from the 60s from a bluesy guitar player like this b. Maybe he’s not from that era. I don’t know anything about him. He colaborated with Bonnie riatt who I hate since she won all those Grammies for give em something to talk about. Yuck. This record was fine. I noted no instances of awesomeness.
Lovely lovely bluesy album. Admittedly nothing that truly blew me away, but nothing that I didn't vibe with. Will revisit when I the mood
very ok? a lot of the collabs felt random and out of place
incredibly boring blues?
So John Lee Hooker is a fucking beast, but this album turns him into a candy ass. You know something is wrong when Thorogood is the best pairing, but the title track with Santana is an abomination.
Отличная музыка, именно тот блюзец, который я искал, душевный, нервный, настоящий. Есть и более попсовые вещи, а есть и шизофреническо-экспериментальные
Cool album and cool story behind this album. Mainstream commercial money well deserved for such an important character in blues. Collabs are great too, starting off with Carlos Santana being his usual epic self. Cool to hear Hooker singing with Santana riffs. Solid and moody all the way through after that, starting, appropriately, with a new version of In the Mood. It's not often someone this late in their career has such a great album, I think it speaks to JLH's attention to craft more than anything. 5/5
This album has great, innovative, fresh, exciting lyrics like when he says he ain't gonna be your fool no more and he's rocking these blues away, or when he says his baby's done him wrong, but that's alright The only thing that could possibly make this album more captivating is if he takes these creatively-inspired lines and repeats them a few more times (so that the listener can soak all that depth in) to the same predictable melodies unchanged from decades ago I don't know the value of a blues album like this from the year 1989, or why it would be in the 1001 list, and even moreso I don't understand why this album is rated so high, there's a couple cool tracks, Cuttin' Out was entertaining, but the track stretch of Sally Mae > That's Alright > Rockin' Chair was about as dull as near-brain death (with some emotion in the singing on the latter track being the only remaining sign of life) am I so out of touch? no, it's the Gen X'ers who are wrong! cover's kind of cool though. only at the time of writing this did I realize dude wasn't a frog
It was OK. Not really my type of music.
Good but sounds like polished blues. Blues for normies. But maybe I'm a normie when it comes to blues? Or am I not?
It's okay. Maybe I don't actually like the Blues, but just like BB King?
his other work is better, even though some of the collabs on here are awesome. I read this was in hope to provide some $$$ for him later in his years, which I don't love and would recommend you go listen to his earlier years. Makes me wonder why this made it on this list...
pretty good yeah true blues 4/5
Smooth and easy listening. Can imagine jacky boy liking this album. 🍋
Great blues album with jazzy influences. Varied musical styles between songs keep the album from becoming stale. Especially strong from its middle on.
j’avoue j’ai trouve ça fade
Pure straight raw blues/ Americana. Most songs slow with classic bluesy beat/rhythm/lead guitar. I like how this album incorporates the featured artists known style with the blues Americana of JLH
Solid from beginning to end--I think it's throwback nature in the last tracks gets me to a 4.
Sounded ok, wouldn’t relisten.
Not bad, I'm not normally a big fan of blues but I can appreciate this
Excellent
I liked it. I liked that he played with some other famous musicians, then finishes it out with three of his own. Good music!
Some cheese and some meh on here (see the first two tracks). Suffers from National Treasure syndrome where everyone wanted to work with a legend who needed a top-selling record. Late-80s early 90s style production is a little gross too. Definitely doesn't feel like essential JLH. The Los Lobos and Canned Heat tracks are standouts, tho
No. 324/1001 The Healer 3/5 I'm in the Mood 3/5 Baby Lee 3/5 Cuttin' Out 3/5 Think Twice Before You Go 3/5 Sally Mae 3/5 That's Alright 3/5 Rockin' Chair 3/5 My Dream 3/5 Average: 3/5 Alright to listen to, just not something that really excites me personally. No Substitute
Pleasant to listen to but nothing special
It was fine but probably will not listen to again
so slowwwww
mmmmm so so
I'm a massive John Lee Hooker fan and he's an incredible musician, so even if this album falls slightly flat I still enjoyed it massively - can't justify giving it less than 5 stars cause there's albums I've rated 5 that I haven't enjoyed as much.
I love old school blues, but the 80s production on this really drags it down.
good blues sound with fun features along the way
I am in fact in the mood. Great voice
Not quite my thing, but could tell it was good guitar playing throughout, which got the impression he was a guitar playing blues man. Mission accomplished
Traditional blues
Good throughout but never great
This album is a great example of how a veteran can step into a new era without losing the soul of their sound. It’s got that unmistakable Hooker groove — earthy, steady, and full of character — but wrapped up in a slicker, more collaborative package. There’s a warmth that runs through the whole record, the kind that makes every shuffle and slide feel lived in. Even with the cleaner production, it never drifts too far from the raw power that defines his style. What makes it so enjoyable is how well Hooker’s voice and guitar playing blend with the guests. The title track, with its slow burn and easy rhythm, sets the tone perfectly. His chemistry with Carlos Santana brings a nice spark, and tracks like “I’m in the Mood” and “Baby Lee” show just how effortlessly Hooker can command a song with the smallest gestures. The whole album moves at its own pace, never rushed, letting that blues pulse do all the talking. It’s not the most adventurous or challenging record, but it doesn’t need to be. It’s confident, warm, and easy to slip into, like old denim that still fits perfectly. The Healer is proof that Hooker’s music didn’t just survive into a new decade — it thrived.
Hyvää bluesia. 3/5.
Now we are talking! Great collaborations!! It's so funny to me how you can ALWAYS tell Carlos's playing. I always think of the Frank Zappa song "Variations On The Carlos Santana Secret Chord Progressions" when I hear his playing on someone else's song.
Pure Magic! Pleasantly surprised by this one! Added to the rotation.
On one hand, I like that the collabs on this album show that blues is the essence of a lot of different styles of music. One the other, I think I would have rather just listened to John Lee Hooker.
John Lee Hooker is the man! Very enjoyable album.
3/5 background music-ing this morning