Big Bad Voodoo Daddy- self titled

This album (often confused with Americana Deluxe, which it is not) is BBVD's debut album. It was released in 1993.

Things get off to a flying start with Jumpin' Jack, which is a cracking instrumental-ish song. However, 10 years later, the song also appeared on their live recording, by which times their musicianship had improved greatly. The debut album version is probably quite good in its own right, but I can't help comparing it to the live recording. It's the same story for Kings of Swing.

BBVD's cover of 13 Women has not been upstaged by any later albums, therefore the version on this album is a little-known treasure. The menacing mood is wonderfully intensive, thanks to a style something like slow-burn psychobilly. The prowling guitar, tortured swirling horns and driving groove make for a fantastic take on the Bill Haley hit. Also, I find the absurd premise of the song most amusing: "so a nuclear bomb went off last night", which is quickly glossed over as the song ponders the social dynamics of being the only man inhabiting a town full of women!

Compared to later albums, the arrangements are quite understated. Cruel Spell and Beggars Blues are the obvious examples which come to mind, but it also applies to the more upbeat songs. Machine Gun is similar to vintage BBVD fare, yet the instrumentals are much sparser than usual. I think it works very well. The same applies to the lyrics- simple, yet evocative. Tying this song together is an overall structure which which ebbs and flows very nicely. Great stuff.

The ending, So Long Good Bye, works well during a live show, but I think it's an awkward inclusion on a studio album.

Favourite songs

13 Women, Cruel Spell, Machine Gun

Worthwhile?

The understated approach of this debut album certainly has its charms. However, there's only a small minority of great songs and it is mostly overshadowed by later albums. In the end, I'll say yes it is worthwhile, almost purely for the cover of 13 Women.