Make Do With What You Got - Solomon Burke Album Review

Photo:Piper Ferguson link

Album Review

It’s hats off to one of the best Rock’n’Soul exponents of all-time.Almost touching 70,the Philadelphia legend nurtures the past and braves the future.With his big powerful voice still intact,he’s leaving his contemporaries(what’s left of them)in the shade.Still gigging world-wide,this is a dramatic return to from on what essentially is a covers collection.Despite his huge reputation,he didn’t register commercially with the British public,having never entered the charts with singles or albums under his own name.In 2003 he collaborated with Dutch producer Junkie XL(Tom Holkenborg - who had a number one hit with a remix of Elvis’ A Little Less Conversation).The single Catch Up To My Step didn’t repeat the success of Elvis,languishing at 63.This sophisticated offering harnesses his roots,moves it on,and retains his genre defining sensibilities.His backing band are tight and hot,allowing the maestro to run riot with soulfully rasping vocals.Vaunted songwriters on offer include Bob Dylan,Robbie Robertson(The Band)Van Morrison,Mick Jagger/Keith Richards and Hank Willims,with the interpretations sitting neatly next to each other-all done in Burke’s soul-searching style.From the Stonesy opening salvo of Coco Montoya’s I Need Your Love In My Life,you know you’re in for a special listening experience.He goes into gospel-mode on several occasions,and lovey-dovey on self-penned After All These Years.On a countrified At The Crossroads he sounds a dead-ringer for Morrison himself,showcasing his vocal mastery.In the sixties the Stones covered Burke’s Cry To Me:now he returns the favour with their I Got The Blues.

Heavily featured is the sublime organ work of Rudy Copeland,guitars of Reggie Young,Ray Parker Junior(of Ghost Busters fame)and drummer James Gadson.

Verdict:tasty.

Elly Roberts