| Originally intended as a triple album, The Sun, Moon & Herbs was 
        chopped up, whittled down and re-assembled into this single-disc release, 
        and while Dr. John never liked this version much, perhaps this single 
        disc is testament to the "less is more" theory. The seven cuts 
        are all quite lengthy and the spells Dr. John and his consorts weave are 
        dark and swampy. "Black John the Conqueror" comes from old Cajun 
        folklore which the good Dr. has modernized and given a beat. The swampy 
        "Craney Crow" is the younger sibling of his earlier "Walk 
        on Guilded Splinters" and has a similar effect on the listener. "Pots 
        on Fiyo (Fils Gumbo)" combines Latin American rhythms with lots of 
        Cajun chants and spells. The vocals are nearly incomprehensible and actually 
        serve as another instrument in the mix. "Zu Zu Mamou" is so 
        thick that you can almost cut the music with a knife. Here, the atmosphere 
        takes on a whole other meaning altogether. The Sun, Moon & Herbs is 
        best listened to on a hot, muggy night with the sound of thunder rumbling 
        off in the distance like jungle drums. Dr. John was definitely on to something 
        here, but just what is left up to the listener.  (by James Chrispell, All 
        Music Guide) |