Locked Down by Dr. John

The real trick that this disc pulls off is that it sounds at once familiar, but still constantly surprising.

Teaming with The Black Keys’ Dan Auerbach, who brought atmospherics, buzzy guitars and quicksand grooves that pull you in, this is 21st century mojo essentialized.

On the whole it’s a more engaged, eclectic, and ornery set than these types of revivalist projects usually are.

Locked Down is a weird-ass gumbo of grotty funk and R&B, littered with raunchy reeds, leering organ riffs, and blustery guitar.

Locked Down has a lot of finely crafted moments that feel like Dan Auerbach and Dr. John really made something neat.

The team-up works wonders for Dr. John, proving he’s still got the weird power, and it does the same for Auerbach, proving his range of ability is deeper than some expected.

Ultimately it is nice to hear a living legend treated like the still-vibrant artist that he is.

Three great tracks (Locked Down, Getaway, and album closer) peppered amid an otherwise unspectacular but solid, consistent field of swampy blues rockers...Dr. John's best in a long, long while, and best old timer release of the 2012. Auerbach really did right by the old dog.