Although his stage name sounds like a blues parody, a la Mashed Potato Johnson from the cartoon Metalocalypse, guitarist and harmonica player Watermelon Slim (real name Bill Homans) has been churning out some of the best Chicago-style blues in recent memory, built on his working class background. It's his time spent as a trucker hauling watermelons that define the lyrical theme of his new country-flavored album, Escape From The Chicken Coop.
"Caterpiller Whine" has a barreling roadhouse rhythm. Percussive piano and urgent electric slide guitar define the song. Slim's gummy, worn vocals fit the style perfectly.
Many great blues songs have a double entendre and "Skinny Woman and Fat Cigars" is an obvious but entertaining example of this. The song has a laid back feel, also invoking Southern staples such as sweet tea.
"You See Me Like I See You" is an example of the classic Nashville country duet, basically Slim playing the part of George Jones and Jenny Littleton playing the part of Tammy Wynette. Steel guitar and soft, simple drumming abound.
"Wreck On The Highway" takes a cue from classic bluegrass. The lyrical and vocal structure is clearly influenced by people like Ralph Stanley. Acoustic slide guitar and mandolin fill out the song.
"Hank Williams You Wrote My Life" may just have the best song title on the album. The vocalization has a drawn-out bluegrass quality but the rest is pure country, including the catchy chorus hook.
"It's Never Too Hard To Be Humble" has acoustic slide guitar fit into a waltz-like rhythm. Tinkling piano in the background gives the song another interesting element.
Slim leaves the truck driving stereotypes, which actually might have some truth to them since he lived that life, towards the end of the album with "Truck Drivin' Songs" and "18, 18 Wheeler." The first has a Lyle Lovett feel, that place where country, blues and swing intersect. The second has speedy drums and fiddle breaks.
Blues purists might be put off by this album but there's a fine line between classic country and blues. Both genres are famous for detailing the tough times life throws at you and the joy music can bring. And an album about "truckin'" wouldn't be complete without some country flavor. Despite a few bland songs, Watermelon Slim delivers this music honestly without too much of the modern mainstream Nashville country sheen.
