The Healer
was a major comeback for
John Lee Hooker
. Featuring a wide array of guest stars, including
Bonnie Raitt
,
Johnnie Johnson
, and
Los Lobos
captured widespread media attention because of all the superstar musicians involved in its production. Unfortunately, that long guest list is what makes the album a fairly unengaging listen. Certainly there are moments were it clicks, but that's usually when the music doesn't greatly expand on his stripped-down boogie. The other moments are professional, but not exciting. It's a pleasant listen, but never quite an engaging one. ~ Thom Owens