I recently reviewed Micki’s new album “Experience” and said it was a “groove laden album let down by poor vocals and poor production”. “Gypsy Cowboy” is a re-issue of an earlier album and I am happy to report that it is still groove laden but the production and vocal departments show a vast improvement and made this album an enjoyable listen.

Instrumental opener “Free…At Last” sounds like Micki attacking someone with a chainsaw. This leads nicely into the two part “Stockport #27/Purple or Black”. The former being a high octane Hendrix style number and the latter being a mellow Hendrix style number – nice.

“Rattlesnake” sounds like an off-cut from ZZ Top’s classic “Tres Hombres” album. “Restless Heart” has an almost countrified feel to it – imagine something off “Soldier of Fortune” by “The Outlaws” and you won’t be far away. The country feel is revisited later with “Heather’s Arms”.

All of the songs feature excellent guitar playing by Micki and generally have a melodic feel to them (for example the chorus of “Wave On”) – probably a carryover from his Crown of Thorn days. “Wounded Knee” even features Micki doing his best Carlos Santana impressions.

Excluding the final oddball “Baker Canyon Boogie” the wonderful instrumental “Waterfall” closes the album.

Not a bad song in the bunch…well, maybe one as I didn’t like the funk groove number “Stevie”.

Overall – well Micki…this one I like!!

****

Review by Phil Berisford

***** Out of this world | **** Pretty damn fine |
*** OK, approach with caution unless you are a fan |
** Instant bargain bin fodder | * Ugly. Just ugly