Hugh Laurie, the English actor who plays America’s most self-destructive television doctor, has released a blues album. Laurie enlisted Joe Henry and the great Allen Toussaint to produce the record, signifying that he has lofty goals for the album. According to Laurie people came up to him and suggested that he record a blues album. I suspect that these are the same people we have to thank for the supply of talent on American Idol. Please feel free to indulge the urge to roll your eyes at this barely disguised vanity project.
However, you will be surprised to learn that Let them talk is a love letter to blues. It is an awkward, earnest, love letter that is redeemed by its awkwardness. It is ambitious and it helps that Laurie is supported by an excellent band: Jay Bellerose (drums), Kevin Breit (guitar, tenor sax, mandolin), Greg Leisz (guitar, dobro, mandolin), David Piltch (bass), and Patrick Warren (keys). Laurie’s voice is simultaneously the most endearing and the weakest feature of the album. Laurie affects a drawl that is supposed to imply soul but borders on annoying. It would be unfair to all parties to compare Hugh Laurie to the masters of blues like Earl King, Robert Johnson or Muddy Waters, however there is no doubt that Laurie has studied their work diligently.
Laurie is more concerned about showcasing his love and appreciation for the genre. He has mastered the technique and sticks to the genre closely. Laurie covers several old blues and old folk songs with the appropriate delicacy and respect. He is skillful on the piano and confident on the guitar, but there are no abstractions or interpretations here. Frankly this is for the better. Let Them Talk is a loving recital of the blues. However, You can’t shake the feeling that Laurie is just play-acting.
Recommended Tracks:
- Swanee River: Starts pensively and creeps up into a fun groove with Laurie light and steady on the piano.
- You Don’t Know My Mind: The “Dr. House” is strong on this one. You can almost hear the smirk.
- St. James Infirmary: Laurie let’s his piano do most of the work and we are grateful.
Track Listing: 
1. Saint James Infirmary 2. You Don’t Know My Mind 3. Buddy Bolden’s Blues 4. The Whale HasSwallowed Me 5. John Henry 6. They’re Red Hot 7. Six Cold Feet In The Ground 8. The Battle Of Jericho 9. After You’ve Gone 10. Swanee River 11. Police Dog Blues 12. Tipitina 13. Whinin’ Boy Blues 14. Baby, Please Make A Change 15. Let Them Talk
