The Robert Cray Band

In My Soul
Provogue

40 years of the Robert Cray Band is highlighted by this landmark disc In My Soul. Cray and bassist Richard Cousins originated the band back in 1974 and throughout those ensuing years there has been one stellar release after another filling up their resume. The band most recently struck paydirt with their 2012 album Nothin’ But Love; a disc that hit strongly amongst the best material that Cray has ever laid down to tracks. It left some very big shoes to fill replicating the success and power of that release, but In My Soul easily matches that and just may surpass it, too. It comes home to Cray’s roots and love for the sound of soulful R&B with eight original numbers set up alongside a trio of outstanding covers initially made famous by Otis Redding, Bobby Bland and Lou Rawls.

Alongside Cousins, Cray is also joined by new band member Les Falconer on drums who also sings on “Nobody’s Fault But Mine,” which having another vocalist taking the lead in itself is a first for any Cray recording. And returning to the band after a lengthy absence since the 1980s is keyboardist Dover Weinberg. His playing really excels on numbers such as “Deep In My Soul,” “Fine Yesterday,” the tender “Hold On,” and his Booker T styled organ on the instrumental “Hip Tight Onions.” Also in the mix are the driving horns of Trevor Lawrence and Steve Madalo on a handful of songs, and Steve Jordan offering percussion, drums and even guitar on a trio of tracks as well as handling the producing chair for the whole outing.

Cray is right on top of his game with his guitar work, as expected. But what is the true star of In My Soul is the deep down, feel it to your bones soulful vocals that excel throughout the album. He is at his absolute best on pieces like “Your Good Thing Is About To End” and “Hold On.” There is a lot of heart behind In My Soul and if 40 years of making music has done anything for Robert Cray it has proven that there are still a lot of oats to sow and though he has had a fair amount of success over the years, he just may still have his best work ahead of him still. In My Soul is certainly paving the path in that direction.

Total Time: 48:55

You Move Me / Nobody’s Fault But Mine / Fine Yesterday / Your Good Thing Is About To End / I Guess I’ll Never Know / Hold On / What Would You Say / Hip Tight Onions / You’re Everything / Deep In My Soul / Pillow