Q (11/93, p.144) - 4 Stars - Excellent - "...[BUTT ROCKIN'] shows how [The Fabulous Thunderbirds] opened up to new perspectives..."
Fabulous Thunderbirds: Kim Wilson (vocals, harmonica); Jimmie Vaughn (guitar); Keith Ferguson (bass); Fran Christina (drums).
Additional personnel: Anson Funderburgh (guitar); Greg Piccolo (tenor saxophone); Doug James (baritone saxophone); Al Copely (piano).
Recorded at Crystal Studios, Hollywood, California and Goodnight Studios, Dallas, Texas. Originally released on Chrysalis Records (1319). Includes liner notes by Denny Bruce.
Digitally remastered by Robert Vosgien (2000 Capitol).
Unfortunate title notwithstanding, the T-Birds third album continues in the tough modern blues style of their two previous efforts, albeit with edgier production and some interesting horn and piano contributions from their pals Roomful of Blues. Highlights include the jaw-dropping change-of-pace instrumental "Cherry Pink and Apple Blossom White" (originally a hit for big band leader Perez Prado during the Mambo Craze of the 1950s), an atmospheric cover of Slim Harpo's swampish-sounding "Tip On In," and "In Orbit," another of leader Kim Wilson's solo harmonica workouts a la Little Walter.