The Bottom Line
The rockin', rhythmic blues of Tony Joe White is soothing balm for the spirit.
Together with some of his heroines, in this case some of the finest female singers in Americana
music, Tony Joe puts together a disc that inspires, entreats, delights, and moves. Tony Joe's
voice is like molten silver, powerful as a freight train and tender as a velvet glove.
Pros
- "Can't Go Back Home"
- "Back Porch Therapy"
- "Fireflies in the Storm"
Cons
- None.
Description
- Tony Joe's first new US recording in six years, and the first for Sanctuary records.
- Featuring Shelby Lynne, Lucinda Williams, Jessi Colter, Emmylou Harris and Michelle White.
- Twelve rockin', laid-back Americana blues songs with some tight musicianship.
Guide Review - Tony Joe White - The Heroines
Tony Joe White is probably best known as a songwriter, the one who gave the world "Polk Salad
Annie," which was a staple of Elvis Presley's live shows (only fitting, as Elvis was one of Tony
Joe's inspirations) and the amazing "Rainy Night in Georgia," the Ray Charles hit. But he's
written only a few of the songs on this new disc, showing off his performing skills over his
songwriting skills, with that ultra-cool voice taking on some fine bluesy songs both solo and with
some truly awesome female singers, including his daughter, Michelle White.
This disc is pure Louisiana soul, rich Americana, with that roots country soul that transcends genre labels. The presence of country queen Emmylou Harris, Americana legend Lucinda Williams, and the amazing Shelby Lynne, who herself has been transcending genre since her beginnings, just adds a greater level of flavor.
Swampy Louisiana blues may not be everyone's cup of tea, but this is a disc that's just plain too good to miss. He invokes enormous feeling with each and every song, with every turn of phrase and every powerful note. Check it out.
