CD Reviews

"Joy"

Root Doctor

Self-Produced

Joy is the fourth recording from previous Blues Music Award nominated band Root Doctor. Hailing from Lansing, Michigan, this outfit continues to release some extra greasy, soulful blues that has enough bite to grasp your nerve endings with ecstasy. Front man Freddie Cunningham’s voice delivers first rate performances whether it be funky, soulful or down in the alley blues and he is backed by artists that make everything on the disc come to life.

There may have been some concern when this band lost two key members from its original line-up when B-3 man Jim Alfredson jumped ship to join Janiva Magness’ band and guitarist Greg Nagy went on to a successful solo career. But have no fears, the band has recruited top flight musicians in their place with keyboard player Mike Skory, string-man Bill Malone and new drummer Bobby Gardner. Matched with Cunningham and founding member James Williams on bass, there is nothing lost in the band’s driving approach that makes them quite enjoyable and this new album proves just that. Skory especially makes his mark with the band, contributing writing credits on five of the numbers, including the title track and two (“Dark Eyes” and “”Don’t Have To Worry No More”) that he shares composition with guitarist Malone. Greg Nagy still shows a little presence as well as the band offers his song “Live For Yourself” in the mix.

But make no mistake, this is Freddie Cunningham’s band. Without his vocal lead the band may still be exceptional, but he is the factor that makes its sound come alive. A natural blues and soul man of the highest degree, his voice carries emotion, enlightenment and perception that cannot be learned. Perhaps it is his Mississippi upbringing, but be it that or whatever cause he should be recognized alongside the elite singers of his generation. Just listen to “Last Call” and the ease he delivers this powerful number, it just seems to roll effortlessly while Malone’s guitar offers nasty biting jabs backed by extraordinary horn riffs.

Joy makes certain to let us know that Root Doctor is not going to go away anytime soon. All ten tracks on this disc, okay eleven, as “It’s Cold Outside (And You Ain’t Going Nowhere)” is listed as a hidden track (is it really hidden if listed on the sleeve?), will get you into a soulful or rockin’ groove with little effort. Good bands just do that, and Root Doctor is a lot more than just a good band. They bring home the goods and then some. Another winning album for certain.

Total Time: 48:10

Dark Eyes / Don’t Have To Worry No More / The Message / Time Zone / Joy / Heavenly Faces / Detroit City / Use This Love / Live For Yourself / Last Call / It’s Cold Outside (And You Ain’t Going Nowhere)