ROOTS

Soul and alt country albums reviewed by Joe Breen.

SOLOMON BURKE

Like a Fire Shout

Factory

****

Solomon Burke, soul and r'n'b singer extraordinaire, is enjoying something of an indian summer, which began with 2002's Don't Give Up on Me. As he moves towards his 70s, Burke has never been more lauded, and it's easy to hear why on this collection of easy-paced classy tunes, produced by ace session drummer Steve Jordan. The rest of the line-up is no less illustrious, with guitarists Danny Kortchmar and Dean Parks and bassist Larry Taylor helping create the rich banckdrop, and special guests Keb' Mo' and Ben Harper adding their voices to the mix.

And yet the majestic voice of "King" Solomon rules with ease. Age may be catching up with him but the phrasing and the timing remain spot on, and there is no doubting his grit and commitment. Like a Fireincludes two Clapton songs (the title track and Thank You, which is co-written with Burke) and a couple from the producer, not the least of which is the lovely, gospel-tinged Understanding, which Jordan co-wrote with wife Meegan Voss, and a gorgeously old-fashioned closer, If I Give My Heart to You.

www.the kingsolomonburke.com

JOE BREEN

Download tracks: Understanding, Like a Fire, If I Give My Heart to You

OLD 97'S

Blame It on Gravity

New West

I've long held a sneaking regard for this Dallas four-piece and their particular brand of alt.country. This is the group's seventh album but their first in four years. The wait was worth it. Blame It on Gravityfinds them returning to loose-limbed, ragged rock'n'roll with country affectations - the kind that makes average songs sound good and good songs sound great. Thankfully the latter dominate. Led by the charismatic Rhett Miller (favourite drink: Jameson's), Old 97's seem refreshed by the break. Their jangling guitars and insistent rhythms combine with instinctive harmonies and clean vocals to create a vibrant atmosphere. It's the sound of a band in love with playing. Of the 13 tracks, whipped-up songs such as Dance With Memake the most impact, though the warm, countryish ballad, Colour of a Lonely Heart Is Blue, strikes a suitably sad tone.

[ www.old97s.com ]

JOE BREEN

Download tracks: Dance With Me, Colour of a Lonely Heart Is Blue, Here's to the Halcyon