The Eddy

Eddy Arnold moved hillbilly music to the city, creating a sleek sound that relied on his smooth voice and occasionally lush orchestrations. In the process, he became the most popular country performer of the 20th century, spending more weeks at the top of the charts than any other artist.

The Chief Eddy Clearwater's West Side Strut is his first release for the Alligator label, and while nothing here is a surprise, Clearwater's Chicago blues/Chuck Berry hybrid remains evident as he works his way through a mix of rock & roll, country, soul, and gospel. Along with Clearwater is a stellar group of fellow Windy City musicians led by second guitarist (and producer) Ronnie Baker Brooks and his band, a horn section, and appearances by Billy Branch on harp, guitarist Lonnie Brooks, and backup vocals by Otis Clay and Jimmy Johnson. Spirited cover versions of Muddy Waters' "Walking Through the Park" and Lowell Fulson's "Trouble, Trouble" are highlights, as are the gutbucket blues "A Good Leavin' Alone," "Blue Over You," and the autobiographical "They Call Me the Chief." West Side Strut is another solid effort for the Chief and Alligator, as well.