Louisiana-based guitarist/vocalist, Rockie Charles' inaugural outing for "Orleans" records comes after years of workmanlike episodes in the music business, including a minor hit, titled "The President of Soul, PT. 1 & 2," recorded in 1970 for Soulgate Records." Otherwise, Mr. Charles has spent years as a tugboat commander amid various gigs and a stint in Nashville.
This release signifies the artist's country-soul palate, amid a few gospel-tinged numbers. Marked by a clean production featuring Rick Allen and Wayne Lohr's effective Hammond B-3, organ accompaniment, Charles surges forth as a singer who seemingly lives through every lyric. He possesses a certain sweetness that alludes to a down home feel, via an animated approach, backed by pleasant melodies, and bluesy grooves. Charles renders a few soft rockers to complement an infectious vibe, although few if any of these works contain catchy hooks or memorable choruses. Therefore, Charles might be lacking a hit within the ranks of these twelve pieces, however when viewed upon as a whole -- he conveys a charming mystique here. ~ Glenn Astarita