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Mardi Gras, Creedence Clearwater Revivial's last album of new material is a very underrated piece of music. On this album, John Fogerty, Doug Clifford, and Stu Cook all sing and write. All of the songs are well written. In addition, Doug Clifford is a fine vocalist. However, Stu Cook's vocal abilities is limited mostly to shouting. Overall, Mardi Gras is a much better output of music than Pendulum. However the album has many production and arrangement flaws. The heavy influence of country music alienated many of Creedence's fans. This was further amplified by the song sequence as most of the rock n roll material comes at the end of the record. The fact that this record was a little more than twenty eight minutes long showed that Creedence was at the end.
Looking For A Reason - You are often judged on your first impression and this song doesn't fit the bill leading off this record. The lyrics are quite good but the slow country beat is a very unpleasant shock to the system for those who want to rock n roll.
Take It Like A Friend - This is a strong composition by Stu. However, Stu's shouting vocal style hinders the overall performance. Tom Fogerty's rhythm guitar is missed on this number.
Need Someone To Hold - This song is reminiscent of something The Band would do. The piano is very appropriate here and Doug Clifford proves to be a very capable vocalist.
Tearing Up The Country - A very happy-go-lucky song. Doug's vocal fits the this song like a glove. As much as I like this song, I'm wondering where's the rock n roll?
Someday Never Comes - A poignant and very touching piece. This song shows that old J.C. could still write a masterpiece. The charged chorus fits in well with the softer verses. There is no way this song should be stuck at the end of side 1.
What Are You Gonna Do? - Now this is a good song to lead off side 2! The drums and guitar work well together. Another good Cosmo vocal. I wonder if John ever thought of letting Doug sing some of their earlier songs such as "Don't Look Now" and "My Baby Left Me". Whereas John definitely has the strong voice, another dimension was there for the taking.
Sail Away - This song isn't all that bad. However, it is performed poorly. Stu has no business singing this song as his screams kill this tender ballad. The drums are too heavy and the guitar too soft. One of Creedence's worst efforts.
Hello Mary Lou - Excellent cover version of the Rickey Nelson classic with a nice percussion beat by Doug. This song would be nicer as the album closer.
Door To Door - This rocker suits Stu's limited vocal abilities perfectly. The song is extremely well written. My only complaint is that John should have contributed a longer guitar solo.
Sweet Hitch Hiker - Now this is the Creedence I love! Good American Made Rock N Roll with a screaming guitar, booming bass, and good angry drumming. This rocker should be at the beginning of the album not the end.
Overall Rating: 8.75 out of 10
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