Sun Moon & Herbs (LP)

Dr. John a.k.a the night tripper is a singer, songwriter, voice actor, pianist, and guitarist, whose music combines Blues, Pop, Jazz, Zydeco, Boogie Woogie and Rock & Roll.

Active as a session musician since the late 1950s, he gained a cult following in the late 1960's following the release of his album Gris-Gris and his appearance at the Bath Festival of Blues and Progressive music. He performed a wildly theatrical stage show inspired by medicine shows, Mardi Gras costumes and voodoo ceremonies. This eventually resulted in his signature 'voodoo' music style.

The Sun Moon & Herbs is described by Allmusic as "dark and swampy" and "best listened to on a hot, muggy night with the sound of thunder rumbling off in the distance like jungle drums".

The center-piece of the album is "Familiar Reality," a long cut based on one evil-sounding Stones-type riff. As usual, Dr. John's strength lies in his galvanizing; mesmerizing choruses. The ones on "Black John the Conqueror" and "File Gumbo" are unforgettable.