Johnny “Guitar” Watson - Untouchable! The Classic 1959-1966 Recordings

Texan/LA Bluesman’s finest collected for the first time on CD

Renowned for cardigan-attire that even the most hard-pressed charity shopper would find it difficult to wear, this exhaustive collection captures nearly all of John Watson Junior’s 20-plus releases, on up to seven labels, shortly after his first solo album, Gangster Of Love, and on to 1966. It begins with an unissued take of 1959’s The Bear on the Class label, juxtaposed with the chugging rock’n’roll of Untouchable. 1961’s Lookin’ Back underlines Watson’s importance to the emerging British R&B groups (it was later recorded by John Mayall’s Blues Breakers), alongside more recognisable tracks such as Gangster Of Love and Cuttin’ In. Lesser-heard songs such as Embraceable You show how Watson attempted to incorporate string arrangements à la Ray Charles, often providing B-sides to the more upbeat A-sides. Watson really shines on his own material. Included are the gritty stomps and Northern soul favourite of Big Bad Wolf, and the Olympics-esque funk of Ain’t Gonna Move, replete with searing guitar breaks and rueful grooves. He would continue to be famous throughout his career, as many (including, most vociferously, himself) appreciated his influence on blues, soul and funk. This serves as an accessible introduction and must-have for Watson followers, as he went from space guitar bluesman to urban soul singer.

Ace | CDCHD 1180

Reviewed by Ali MacQueen
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