Keyboard ace Dr. Joel Rudinow has gathered key players from the Northern California scene to assist on Rude Notes Galore (Whassup Pussycat 0501), his first solo recording after years of working with Elvin Bishop and others.  It's a good-time effort marked by wry lyrics ("Rock'n'Roll Doctor", "Bio-Rhythms") and a variety of styles.  Worth singling out are "BluRumbaDeLux", a gorgeous instrumental with cool changes and Norton Buffalo on harp, the Southern-fried funk of "Ethyl's Place," Rudinow's stripped-down cover of ZZ Top's "Fool 4 Your Stockings," a take on Bishop's "The Skin They're In" featuring a rolling piano break and blistering guitar by Ian Lamson, and the crashing piano-drum duet "Ripped Off Again".  An enjoyable set.

                            -  Tom Hyslop in Blues Revue  Issue # 99 (Apr/May '06)
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One does not associate San Francisco particularly with Americana roots rock, New Orleans funk, and blues. Nevertheless Dr. Joel Rudinow understands these art forms well enough to present all of this in an overwhelming way. . .  'Rude Notes Galore' is a perfect illustration how it really can and should be done. A beautiful funky opener 'Ethyl's Place', the totally swinging 'Walk On Baby' and the all out rocker 'Rock'n'Roll Dr.' are delivered by Dr. Joel Rudinow & friends with irresistible enthusiasm. In these first three numbers all the musicians show their professionalism, but especially Rudinow who with his wonderful voice sets the tone for the album. The musicians mix influences of blues and funk in rock'n'roll songs with an originality that is absolutely obvious. Even blues leave no secrets hidden from this explosive group; they prove that in Elvin Bishop's 'The Skin They're In'.  It is sometimes said that growing older enables one to start appreciating good things. 'Rude Notes Galore' is already a good example of that. If you like more than pure blues, check this out!
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The short version says it all.  I really liked this CD enormously and will probably give copies for Christmas.
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Joel Rudinow has recorded an enjoyable album, no doubt about that. I like his interesting arrangements and a tight band. What also made me impressed is songwriting. Today most songs are about bullshit. He wants to express
something through his lyrics and that is very cool.
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