|
'Hold On' is a
good example: over a surging horn riff, Danny reminisces over a long list of singers and songs
from that era. If you liked "Soulsville"
on that last CD, you'll love this one. The title song is a
storming gospel soul song with the horns set against the choir and
what a choir: John Mays, Steve Ambrose, Hiram
Joseph, Amoy Levy and Julia Churchill all appear
on various songs. "Good Love Is Hard To Find" is another
`secular' song with a very catchy melody. "Unseen Hands"
finds Danny in Howling Wolf mode warning us about
the powerful who want to control our lives. "Tears from Heaven"
is an impassioned plea for the poor. After those difficult topics
it comes as a bit of a shock to hear an eloquent request for
patience, but "It Takes A Little Time' has a great horn
arrangement.
Richard
Bell is back as producer and arranger with assistance from
Doug Romanow. It has taken Danny quite a while to get to this
level of achievement and I hope it continues for a long time.
-John
Valenteyn/
Maple Blues Magazine |
|
WHAT'S WRONG WITH THE MUSIC BUSINESS?
-
What's wrong with a music business that allows a talent as rich
and focused as Milton, Ont., soul/blues/gospel singer-composer
Brooks to squander such brilliant work on the outer fringes of
the independent market? Here is an awesome musical assembly of
seasoned veterans-pianist/producer and former Band/Janis Joplin
sideman Richard Bell, drummer Bucky Berger, bassist Dennis Pinhorn, guitarist Papa John King,
gospel singer Amoy Levy and a horn section to die for - who
are devoted to Brooks' muscular blend of hard rocking, good-time Southern boogie, soul,
and R&B.
Rock This House
is a blazing hot record, loaded with deep and joyful grooves,
propelled by an irresistible pulse, heated by Muscle Shoals and
Delta sweat, and bursting with songs that unfold compelling
yarns of faith, trial, sorrow, peace, redemption and above all,
love. Brooks' fierce growl had never sounded more real than it
does on this stunning recording, easily his finest effort, and
deserving of Big Time attention. - Greg
Quill Toronto Star
|
