Live in NYC '97 (CD - 1998)

Engineers: Chris Andersen, Nevessa Productions, Joe Johnson.

Recorded live at The Bottom Line, New York, New York in April 1997 and at Studio 900, New York, New York.

Old-fashioned Texas blues man Johnny Winter may not seem like a high-tech kind of guy, but LIVE IN NYC '97 proves otherwise. Through his web site, Winter invited fans to vote for their favorite blues standards. Then he got together a hot young rhythm section, bassist Mark Epstein and drummer Tom Compton, rented out the Bottom Line in New York City, and invited members of his fan club for a special private show in April, 1997. This impressive live album is the result. There's only one Winter original, his collaboration with/tribute to Johnny "Guitar" Watson, "Johnny Guitar."

The rest of the nine-song set consists of blues standards by Snooks Eaglin, Elmore James, Ray Charles, and Albert King, whose "Hideaway" gets a treatment that's close to definitive. In front of an obviously appreciative crowd, and with a solid, empathetic rhythm section behind him, Winter seemingly effortlessly pulls off some of the best playing of his career. Essential for fans. minimize