It won't take long -- maybe 30 seconds into the opening bluesy soul ballad -- to realize that Eric Lindell's sophomore Alligator release is a far cry from the typical "house-rocking" blues synonymous with the label's success. Alligator understands that reaching outside of the blues to stay vital is essential for survival and Lindell is a perfect candidate to accomplish that. His soulful, funk-drenched approach is a stretch for even the most liberal fan to consider blues, but there is no denying the connection to that genre. The follow-up to 2006's debut -- which was a compilation of previously released material -- is a far more cohesive project. Lindell works with a consistent three-piece here, which results in a tighter, more focused set that highlights the group's natural groove. These guys are totally in the pocket for songs that shift from Little Feat ("It's My Pleasure") and Meters-influenced funk (the post-Katrina "It's a Pity") to retro Curtis Mayfield-styled R&B ("Tried and True"). Lindell is a quadruple threat as a solid songwriter, impressive guitarist, affecting singer, and better than average harmonica blower. That he never seems to be working very hard adds to his appeal and the loose yet focused sound. Credit the band, with occasional help from horns, for creating this rubbery vibe. Just as important is Lindell's own spacious production that makes it seem as if he's playing in your living room. The album's only cover, Gil Scott-Heron's "Lady Day and John Coltrane," is an inspired choice and fits perfectly with the rest of these similarly frisky, upbeat originals. This is sunshiny singalong party music that's deceptively difficult to create. Lindell makes it seem not just easy, but natural.
© Hal Horowitz /TiVo