One of those legendary lost albums, Jackdawg is the sole legacy of a one-time, second-string supergroup. Recorded in the late ‘80s and early ‘90s by a temporary trio consisting of John McFee and the late Keith Knudson – guitarist and drummer, respectively, for the Doobie Brothers – and ex-Creedence Clearwater Revival bassist Stu Cook, it makes for an intriguing footnote to the history of both bands. The obvious thread that united the participants was the penchant for insistent rhythms and a basic rock ‘n’ roll revelry. “Bayou Rebel” procures the swampy sound of CCR, while the pulse of “Lookin’ For Trouble” injects a dose of a Doobies-like panache. Still, it’s telling that the most noteworthy song is a faithful cover of Van Morrison’s “Wild Night,” to which McFee stakes a claim for having contributed to the original. Cook’s production duties on the original version of Roky Erikson’s “Cold Night for Alligators” give the band reason to reprise it as well. In the end, Jackdawg offers a fine example of a journeyman outfit doing what they do best. And that’s more than enough reason to give Jackdawg their due. (Sonic Past Music 2008)
