Record Reviews

DAVID CLAYTON-THOMAS ~ BLUE PLATE SPECIAL NOT ON LABEL 196 ~ CANADA ~ Blues-Rock Recorded: 1996 Released: 1996 This is a live in the studio album by Canadian vocalist / songwriter David Clayton-ThomasFind albums by this artist, primarily known as the charismatic frontman of the legendary Brass Rock ensemble Blood, Sweat & TearsFind albums by this artist, recorded after an almost decade long pause following his previous solo album "ClaytonFind albums with this title". He is accompanied by a bunch of great players, including guitarists Larry DeBariFind albums by this artist and Andy AledortFind albums by this artist, organist Doug RileyFind albums by this artist, pianists Matt KingFind albums by this artist and Glenn McClellandFind albums by this artist, harmonica player Rob PaparozziFind albums by this artist, bassist Mike DuClosFind albums by this artist, drummer Jonathan PeretzFind albums by this artist, percussionist Mark QuinonesFind albums by this artist and a four player strong brass section. The album presents ten songs, for of which are originals by Clayton-Thomas and the rest are mostly Blues classics by Albert CollinsFind albums by this artist, Willie DixonFind albums by this artist, Albert KingFind albums by this artist and others. The solo recording career of Clayton-Thomas was revitalized near the turn of the Millennium, when he was nearing the age of sixty, which is quite remarkable and unparalleled. He recorded (so far) thirteen albums since 1996, this being the first of them, more than twice the number of albums he recorded beforehand since the start of his career. The album is a wonderful opportunity for Clayton-Thomas to revisit his Blues roots, which he does singing brilliantly and with a great feeling. His idiosyncratic voice, charisma and love of music remain intact and for his many fans this album is strong as everything else he ever recorded. The accompanying musicians are all pros and the album offers superb soloing from start to finish, especially guitar and organ work. This is a classic Blues-Rock environment, which in the hands of capable musicians like these ones never fails to create the atmosphere the many fans of the genre enjoy! After being a great fan of Clayton-Thomas for over five decades, it is great to return to this album after not listening to it for over 20 years – it is as fresh as it sounded when I heard it for the first time!

Updated: 12/08/2020Posted: 08/08/2020

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