2011-08-28
Arnold McCuller has made a pretty nice living as a musican doing background vocals for James Taylor, Lyle Lovett, Phil Collins and a bevy of other superstars. He's occasionally released a few little-known side projects along the way, but this release seems intent on testing the waters for more solo appearances. He has a great voice and puts it to good use in this set, made up of originals, covers and new interpretations. The title track and "Gods and Monsters" are well-crafted originals. The gospel tinge to "The River Knows Your Name" and "The Whale Have Swallowed Me" is just right. And check out the funk of "Don't Go Nowhere," the closing track. The most recognizable of the tunes are the remakes, "Lonely Teardrops" and "Do Right Woman, Do Right Man"--both professionally done, of course, but I'll take Arnold's own creations. 08/11 Michael J. B-R&BLaurence Jones
Take Me High
"Big" Al Dorn & The Blues Howlers
They Call Me Big Al
DAVID EGAN
YOU DON'T KNOW YOUR MIND
THE IGUANAS
If You Should Ever Fall On Hard Times
BIG AL JANO
Some of My Best Friends Have the Blues
Robin McKelle
HEART OF MEMPHIS
The opinions expressed in these reviews are those of the individual volunteers that submitted the article and do not necessarily reflect the views of WYCE or GRCMC; nor its staff, donors, or affiliates.