Vol. 11 #10: Thursday, February 16, 2006
Calgary's News & Entertainment Weekly
FFWD Weekly
CD REVIEWS
by FFWD WRITER
ERIC BURDON
Soul Of A Man
SPV U.S.

· You’re damn right he’s got the blues.

Stepping away from his usual "and the Animals" retro-rock vehicle, this well- seasoned singer-songwriter of the British Invasion returns to the roots of his R&B inspiration. And, I’m relieved to report, at 64 years of age the Newcastle baritone can still bring down the house of the rising sun. Sounding much like you remember him from his "Boom, Boom" days, Eric Burdon muscles his way through 14 impassioned tracks that strive to deliver a message of peace for the future while at the same time paying tribute to those musicians who have come before him. Once you get past the rather morose cover art, you’ll soon discover that Soul of a Man is a rare gem that successfully combines the best of old and new by offering a selection of top-quality contemporary pieces along with Burdon’s own choice cuts from the annals of authentic R&B. Backed by a sure-handed ensemble of experienced bluesmen, Burdon generates a near-live atmosphere as he freely explores soul-stirring renditions of tunes such as the Muddy Waters Chicago blues classic "Forty Days," the legendary Mississippi Fred McDowell’s "Red Cross Store," Howlin’ Wolf’s "44 Blues" and, of course, the sombre yet resolute title song by Blind Willie Johnson.

4/5

CHRISTINE LEONARD

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