Hugh Laurie and the Copper Bottom Band

“House” star Hugh Laurie’s latest role is New Orleans bluesman. On last year’s Joe Henry-produced album “Let Them Talk,” the arrangements and band are terrific, and Laurie’s piano playing is impressive (love the boogie woogie reading of “Swanee River”). His vocals are inconsistent, as he seems to be playing the part of a bluesman in various styles. When Dr. John does the vocal honors on “After You’ve Gone,” you know who’s the real deal. Word is that Dr. House has New Orleans studio players, billed as the Copper Bottom Band, on tour. Jon Bream