All those young up-and-comers who think they know how to sing R&B and soul should really get themselves a dose of Mighty Sam McClain. The man waited years to record any albums (though there were a few singles in the 19... more »60s), but it's been worth the wait. Blues for the Soul is McClain's first for Telarc Records, and it's a near-perfect debut. The slower, lazier songs are ideal for the heat of summer, but one could just as easily imagine listening to McClain in a dark, smoky nightclub in November. His voice is strong, but so smooth that at first you don't notice, and his backing band knows exactly how to support him; they're tight and on the money, but never overwhelming. McClain's perspective is quirky, yet mature, as exemplified by "Jesus Got the Blues" and "Sweet Lady" (in the latter, he sings the praises of smart women--recognizing that beauty's a transient thing, but brains last a lifetime). While there's no doubt he's passionate about his music, McClain's solid record is all the more appealing for its unassuming presentation. --Genevieve Williams« less
All those young up-and-comers who think they know how to sing R&B and soul should really get themselves a dose of Mighty Sam McClain. The man waited years to record any albums (though there were a few singles in the 1960s), but it's been worth the wait. Blues for the Soul is McClain's first for Telarc Records, and it's a near-perfect debut. The slower, lazier songs are ideal for the heat of summer, but one could just as easily imagine listening to McClain in a dark, smoky nightclub in November. His voice is strong, but so smooth that at first you don't notice, and his backing band knows exactly how to support him; they're tight and on the money, but never overwhelming. McClain's perspective is quirky, yet mature, as exemplified by "Jesus Got the Blues" and "Sweet Lady" (in the latter, he sings the praises of smart women--recognizing that beauty's a transient thing, but brains last a lifetime). While there's no doubt he's passionate about his music, McClain's solid record is all the more appealing for its unassuming presentation. --Genevieve Williams
"Honest lyrics and Sam's impressive voice make another great album with excellent songs that was worth waiting for. I only wish it could have the same fine recording excellence that Audioquest was able to produce. Direct Stream Digital technology on this Telarc recording is surely ok, however, this album doesn't really create the sound space,the acoustic depth, and intensity as was captured in his earlier work with Audioquest. This album is probably more "polished" with its powerful horn section than his previous albums, so some atmosphere around the closeness to his "breathing" went missing as a trade-off. Also Bruce Katz on piano has less chances to impress and to create the kind of intimate musical stage that is the trademark of earlier work with Mighty Sam. Nevertheless, mighty fine songs on a mighty fine album."
MIGHTY IS SAM
howard lee teitel | GLENDALE, NEW YORK United States | 07/30/2000
(5 out of 5 stars)
"two time grammy nominee comes up with amother claasic cd"blues for the soul". the 12 songs on this cd is a masterpiece of great music in the mold of the great like otis redding and bobby"blue" bland. this cd is a must if you like the feeling of chruch in your own home."
Sam's latest is a classic R&B CD with great sonics.
musicnu | Deerfield, IL | 02/25/2001
(4 out of 5 stars)
"The Mighty Sam McClain returns with a CD of new blues songs. Sam has changed labels, now recording for Telarc. Telarc is known for the high quality of sound on their CD's and this is no exception. The songs on this CD are not as strong as Joy & Pain, however they are still very good and get better with each listen. The band is first rate, the production is superb and the sonics are clean and pure. Sam is accompanied by an excellent band and the horn charts are what make this CD shine."
LOVE YA SAMMY
Stephen McClaning | Pgh, PA United States | 06/07/2003
(5 out of 5 stars)
"MIGHTY SAM MCCLAIN Blues For The Soul Telarc 83487 The
Mighty One has done it again. Love is the drug for Mr. McClain. ALL WE
NEED IS LOVE says it ALL. Great horns my man. DARK SIDE OF THE STREET
is where the lonely people meet. Open up your heart & love folks. Need mo' love ?
LOVE ONE ANOTHER is just Sam singin' it loud & proud. JESUS GOT THE BLUES
throws a little religion your way. Even the Almighty gets down sometimes. Sometimes
we just let the Man down huh ? SING ME SOME BLUES Mighty one, sing me some blues
and Sam does, oh so well. A little predujdice here because I just love THE MIGHTY
SAM. Give love a chance & give Sam a listen."
Track Listings (12) - Disc #1
