Mascot (label)
27 September 2011 (released)
10 September 2011
I have to be honest and say that Beth Hart came as something of a surprise to me. She has a dirrrrrrrty voice, perfectly suited to Bonamassa’s slide and really does something a bit special in these days of over processed and anodyne music.
On a number like ‘Chocolate Jesus’ she delivers with a real sass and twang while ‘Sinner’s Prayer’ burns with emotion and passion.
She can jazz it up as well and ‘Your Heart Is As Dark As Night’ has a lot of the sultriness that makes Melody Gardot such a great singer – Bonamassa’s guitar is delightful but somehow you really can’t wait for the vocal to come back in again.
Her vocal on ‘Don’t Explain’, over lush strings and a keening guitar sends the right kind of shivers down the back of your neck, slight slurring of the vocal just adding to the feeling and the soul of the performance – I’d dearly love to hear her do ‘My Funny Valentine’.
Half the time while listening to this album I was envisaging a Patti Labelle or a Candi Staten type of singer – early sixties, black and steeped in gospel and Memphis soul – especially on ‘Something’s Got A Hold Of Me’ which rocks like a wild thing.
The whole thing really comes together on I'll Take Care Of You', a monumental Blues and there really isn't a weak moment on the album.
Top stuff and a real eye-opener.
