One would have to be blind, deaf & dumb to not recognize the acting talent of Hugh Laurie--the likable Brit who's become an international sensation via his role as cheerily abrasive Dr. Gregory House on Fox Television's House.
But the musical talent?
You'll be enormously surprised by Laurie's prowess as both player and singer--amply on display on his brand new album Let Them Talk, which, British though he is, joyously celebrates the best of blues and New Orleans classics.
Recorded here in the States and produced by Joe Henry--an impeccable musician in his own right--Let Them Talk features a host of not just famous, but famously musical names, including such New Orleans royalty as Irma Thomas, Allen Toussaint and Dr. John, and Welsh singing superstar Tom Jones. Among the familiar tunes covered are the classic "St. James Infirmary," "Battle Of Jericho," "John Henry," and "Swanee River" among others--and frankly, when one hears Laurie speak without the American accent he uses for his television show, one can't help but wonder how a young, British-born music lover would have fallen so deeply in love with such profoundly American music.
The answer to that and more emerged in our delightful interview with Laurie, which came after a rousing, highly sophisticated set of music he performed in the Y! Music studios. Well-played music, well-spoken artist: Hugh Laurie was a complete delight, and we're grateful he paid us a visit. Just take a look.