Artist: Bo Diddley Album: Bo Diddley / Go Bo Diddley

Year: 1986
Duration: 0:0-1

A Critical Review of the Album: Bo Diddley / Go Bo Diddley by Bo Diddley

In the realm of rock and roll, there are few artists that are as influential as Bo Diddley. Born in 1928, Diddley revolutionized the rock and roll scene in the 1950s and 60s with his signature rhythm and blues sound. His unique blend of African rhythm and traditional blues made him one of the most innovative artists of his time. In 1959, Diddley released one of his most critically acclaimed albums, Bo Diddley / Go Bo Diddley, which featured some of his most iconic hits. In this blog post, we will take a critical look at this album and examine the artist’s contributions to the music genre.

The album, Bo Diddley / Go Bo Diddley, was released on September 1, 1959, under the Chess Records label. The album features 12 tracks that showcase Diddley’s innovative style. The album starts with the track “Crackin’ Up,” which is a perfect introduction to Diddley’s unique sound. The song is driven by a steady and powerful bassline, which is later accompanied by a harmonica and Diddley’s guitar riffs. The track sets the tone for the rest of the album and showcases Diddley’s prowess in blending various musical styles.

One of the standout tracks of the album is “Say Man.” The song features Diddley’s spoken-word style, which was rare for rock and roll at the time. The lyrics are light-hearted and humorous, and the song’s rhythm is infectious, making it one of the most memorable tracks on the album. Another standout track is “Dearest Darling,” a soulful ballad that highlights Diddley’s vocal range and emotional depth as an artist.

The album also features some of Diddley’s most innovative guitar work, particularly on the track, “Aztec.” The song features Diddley’s use of the tremolo effect, which creates a unique and hypnotic sound. The track is a perfect example of Diddley’s experimentation with the guitar and highlights his technical skills as a musician.

Despite its critical acclaim, there are some criticisms that can be made about the album. Some of the tracks on the album feel repetitive, and there is a lack of diversity in the instrumentation. Additionally, some of the songs, such as “The Clock Strikes Twelve” and “Nursery Rhyme,” feel dated and do not hold up well over time.

In conclusion, Bo Diddley / Go Bo Diddley is an important album in the history of rock and roll. The album features some of Diddley’s most iconic hits and showcases his innovation in music production and guitar work. While the album is not perfect, and some criticisms can be made, it remains a classic of the genre and a testament to Diddley’s contributions to music. For fans of rock and roll, Bo Diddley / Go Bo Diddley is a must-listen album that is sure to be enjoyed for many years to come.