Three albums from Keith Emerson are now available, Honky, his first solo album, Off The Shelf, and At The Movies (three CD set). With the exception of Honky, all were very rare recordings that have become collectable over the years.
Emerson needs no introduction; his musical legacy is long and well documented. From his days with The Nice, ELP, and a continuingly productive solo career, I think it is safe to say the man has been nothing short of prolific.
Honky is an enjoyable solo retreat. Originally released in 1985, it is remastered for superior sound. Emerson had to keep putting off this solo album because the record companies would hear his material, comment how good it was, and then ask him to record it with Carl Palmer and Greg Lake. So instead of releasing it on a date in the 70s, which would seem to make more sense, when ELP was at their peak, it kept getting pushed out, finally all the way out to 1985. The question is, was it worth the wait. The answer is yes, if you happen to be a big fan of Emerson no matter what he does, and that happens to be yours truly. This was a fun listen; he takes a little bit of all of his influences, kicks back, and lets it all fly to see what happens. The result is a mixed bag of genres, and of course much of what you would not expect from the keyboard genius. Gone are all the complex and bombastic compositions, in there place are rollicking tunes full of some basic rock with some honky-tonk, rhythm and blues, and flat out blues. This may come as a disappointment for some and a welcome change for others. Emerson has always been ultra talented and is the accomplished music chameleon. Never is that fact more apparent than on his maiden solo voyage.
Track Listing
1. Hello Sailor
2. Bach Before The Mast
3. Hello Sailor Finale
4. Salt Cay
5. Green Ice
6. Intro-Juicing
7. Big Horn Breakdown
8. Yancy Special
9. Rum-A-Ting
10. Chickcharnie
11. Jesus Loves Me
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