VA - The Hot Spot OST (1990, Antilles)

Imagine it's 1 am in a big city and you are walking down a street that has a number of brightly lit clubs/bars where the typical bands are playing the typical covers of "classic" rock to the typical crowds.

You make a wrong turn at one corner and end up near some steep steps that seemingly lead to some gig that's going on. You follow the muffled sounds, open the door and in a room that barely has room for a stage is a group cranking out some of the grittiest blues you have ever heard....it was well worth getting lost to find this hot spot.

That is the feel from this incredible 13-song movie soundtrack. The music is composed by the legendary Jack Nitzsche and features Miles Davis and John Lee Hooker each on 10 tracks, with the iconic duo performing on nine numbers. The supporting cast of musicians include bassist Tim Drummond, guitarist Taj Mahal and drummer Earl Palmer.

Hooker growls through his two gems of solo performances - Harry's Philosophy, Moanin' - but the longest cut, End Credits (5:19), is where the fireworks explode loud and proud; Davis tears through his trumpet part, while Hooker, Taj Mahal and Drummond push the artistry to incredible heights. Gloria's Story features fascinating interplay between Davis and keyboardist Bradford Ellis, while Taj Mahal seizes the lead vocal on the sizzling Bank Robbery.

The liner notes from executive producer Dennis Hopper are interesting and describes the long road taken to get to the point of making this project a reality. The music stands alone as a testament to the power of the blues and the titans it brought together for this 1990 release. (Amazon Review)