Robert Cray Band - In My Soul

  by Lisa Torem

published: 6 / 4 / 2014

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Five time Grammy winner Robert Cray is an extraordinary showman as well as a prolific songwriter. On his new album, 'In My Soul', he explores the kinds of textures and sonics the iconic Stax and Chess Record Label musicians once swooned over. He’s also made some good business decisions. He’s enlisted longstanding colleague Steve Jordan (who has worked with everyone from the Stones to John Mayer) to produce the ten tracks (plus ‘Pillow’, which is a bonus track). He’s written some gems, as well. The process in the studio was purely democratic. Cray and the band members worked diligently with Jordan to give the album just the right touch taking care to not “over practice.” Hence, the album has a palpable organic feel. It begins with the simple yet convincing message in 'You Move Me'. Cray’s voice is as warm and mellow as ever. He leans into this song like it’s his favourite easy chair. The Otis Redding cover, ‘Nobody’s Fault But Mine’ was inspired by the classic act, Sam and Dave. Here Cray shares vocals with drummer Les Falconer. Another cover, which was a hit for Lou Rawls, 'Your Good Thing’s about to Come to an End' is saturated with attitude. Cray really does up the in-your-face story line. The instrumental work is clean, lean and distinctive. A more personal epiphany occurs in 'What Would You Say?' where Cray documents the harsh reality of modern day life and how we all truly crave and would benefit from a safer world. Bassist Richard Cousins, the longtime band member who grew up with the guitarist, co-wrote 'Hip Tight Onions'. Remember Booker T. and the MG’s biggest hit ‘Green Onions?” Well, this riveting instrumental is a tribute to that great ensemble, and they’ve really hit the nail on the head. It’s impossible not to move to the beat and the bass line is unforgettable. Cousins also co-wrote the moving ballad, 'Hold On', which has a completely different feel but is equally satisfying. 'You’re Everything' and 'Deep in My Soul' are both passionate, romantic and genuine. Whether it’s performing a lush melodic solo or singing his heart out, Cray holds nothing back on 'In My Soul'. It stands up to the songwriting quality of his masterstroke 'Strong Persuader' without a doubt but also shows off Cray’s multiple talents and ability to work well with his peers. His voice shows absolutely no wear and tear. In fact, in some ways it’s more full-bodied. When Cray was inducted into the Blues Hall of Fame, he became one of the youngest musicians to receive the award. He has sold over twelve million records, and there’s no evidence that he’s slowing down. And if you get a chance to see this elegant perfomer, do. He’ll be touring with the Robert Cray Band starting in early May of 2014 to celebrate his 40th anniversary as a performer. It’s been said that his concerts are “not to be missed” by his legions of loyal fans.

Track Listing:-

1 You Move Me
2 Nobody's Fault But Mine
3 Fine Yesterday
4 Your Good Thing Is About To End
5 I Guess I'll Never Know
6 Hold On
7 What Would You Say
8 Hip Tight Onions
9 You're Everything
10 Deep In My Soul

Band Links:-

https://www.facebook.com/robertcraymusic
http://robertcray.com/
https://twitter.com/RobertCrayBand

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