Jimmy Carpenter
Walk Away
VizzTone Records
Jimmy Carpenter once again steps outside from his gig with Walter “Wolfman” Washington to showcase his own creative energy as a songwriter and leader with his second solo release, Walk Away. One of New Orleans premier saxophonists and sidemen, he takes on both guitar and vocals here displaying his depth of talent. And as is true with many Crescent City musicians, Carpenter eases between R&B, funk, jazz and blues seemingly effortlessly.
With a local band that features Casandra Faulconer on bass, John Gros on keyboards, Wayne Maureau on drums and percussionist Michael Skinkus. The album also features guitarist John Fohl throughout, plus Mike Zito and Anson Funderburgh on a song each. Antonio Gambrell blends his trumpet alongside Carpenter for a trio of numbers and Memphis-based vocalist Reba Russell takes the lead on the country-tinged “Fellow Traveler” to close out the album along with backing vocals on another three.
As a lyricist Carpenter has a knack for putting together classic lines such as “sometimes I wish that you would leave me so I could watch you walk away”(“Walk Away”) or “you’re a hard act to follow, there is nothing wrong, but she’s not you”(“She’s Not You”) and “everywhere I go they’re playing songs about you” (“Favorite Muse”).
His singing voice is pleasantly soulful with nice delivery, making him a double punch along with his tasteful sax work that comes across consistently, especially on something like the instrumental tracks “7th Street Shuffle” and “C King Blues.” Both are highlighted on “Hard To Be Cool” accented by John Gros’ organ playing. On “Crazy ‘Bout You” there is somewhat of a Springsteen quality on this catchy pop flavored number where Carpenter fills in both the feel of Bruce and Clarence Clemons’ parts. “On The Outside” also takes a more rocking take that will leave you snapping your fingers along; think in the lines of Dave Edmunds here.
But do not think for a minute that Jimmy Carpenter does not know his blues, this album has a little bit for everyone. Very masterfully crafted, all original and all a lot of fun. Walk Away is something you should hear and give it a listen now.
Total time: 59:54
Can’t Let Go / Walk Away / When You’re Ready / She’s Not You / 7th Street Shuffle / No One’s Ever / More Than Meets The Eye / Hard To Be Cool / Crazy ‘Bout You / C King Blues / Favorite Muse / On The Outside / Fellow Traveler