PHILLIP WALKER "GOING BACK HOME" Source: Rhythm, Art & Groove Date: 04/2007 Writer: Kevin Roberts

Phillip Walker might not be a name that you immediately recognize, but he is by no means a newcomer to the Blues recording business. Born in Welsh, LA in 1937, a young Walker was influenced both by the Creole and Cajun rhythms he heard in Louisiana, and after he and his family relocated to Port Arthur, TX, by the Blues. Early career stints on guitar backing Memphis pianist Roscoe Gordon, and The King of Zydeco, Clifton Chenier, and later Chicago Blues greats Johnny Shines and Eddie Taylor proved excellent seasoning for young Phillip. Upon relocating to Los Angeles in 1959, Walker recorded his first album as a bandleader, and numerous releases of note followed throughout the 1960’s, 70’s, 80’s and 90’s. Fast forward to 2007, and you have the latest from Phillip, Going Back Home, 13 tracks of mostly cover songs by artists that influenced Walker. Frankie Lee Sims, Percy Mayfield, Ray Charles and Lightnin’ Hopkins among others are paid homage to. You will invariably hear all the musical styles that make up Walker’s overall sound, but the swinging, Jazzy west coast groove “jumps” right to the forefront. The fretwork is smooth and laid back when need be, and stings at all the right times ...evidence of Walker’s mastery of his big Gibson hollow body guitar. Walker’s singing voice exhibits similar qualities to those of both Robert Lockwood, Jr. and Sam Myers, high praise indeed.

Hot tracks: Blackjack, Leave My Money Alone, Sweet Home New Orleans, Walking With Frankie