Omar & the Howlers - Big Delta (2001)
There are lots of roots bands in this world, each one finding it's own way down the tangled path that is the blues. This album is a statement of the kind of path followed by Kent "Omar" Dykes, who'se respect for the past is matched only by his outstanding songwriting ability. Born in Mississippi, but living in Texas, Kent has melded his varied influences and developed an individual personea that is part Howlin' Wolf and part Bo Diddly, with a little touch of Wolfman Jack thrown in for good measure.
The album opens with Kent Dykes' arrangement of the Leadbelly classic, "Linin' Track". What follows is one of the finest rockin' blues albums I have ever heard! A collection of the best original cuts that Omar & the Howlers has to offer, revisited for a new generation of fans. With a sound as big as the state of Texas and strong as the Mississippi current, Big Delta is Omar & the Howlers tour de force.
In two decades as a recording artist, Kent Dykes has written some memorable music. Now it has been filtered through the live show and come out as something fresh and new, and yet, with a respect for the past. It's new blues, steeped in the legends of history.
There's no doubt that with Big Delta, Omar & the Howlers hits it out of the park. This album is a must have for any fan of the blues!
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