Every blues musician's got to play at least one song about how cool the music is, and darn it if Edgar Winter doesn't do just that on "Nu' Orlins" on his "Winter Blues". That's all right, though, because Winter's got Dr. John in the house, and the venerable pianist's fingers give the song its necessary "je ne sais quoi". Additional backing guest stars include Leon Russell, Rick Derringer, and Eddie Money (!)--all more than earn their pay on this release. Overall, "Winter Blues" is blues rock of the highest order, tastefully done, without the excesses the genre is heir to, even if it does include a song called "New Millennium." At least the song is upbeat; even Money sounds optimistic. Right on. --"Genevieve Williams"