The quintessential essence of the blues is comprised of performers like Little Milton Campbell; those who have given a lifetime to the music and have grown by sheer experiential nature into a master of his game. This songster and guitarist remains one of the most respected men in the business of blues. Another southern stylist, whose velvety vocal tones allow him wide yardage with material, Little Milton also provides a couple of self-penned tunes on this set.
Milton, a Mississippi native, has been with Malaco since 1984; before that recording with Sun, Meteor, Bobbin, Chess and Checker Records in the 60s (where he became one of their hottest selling artists), and later Stax and Glades labels. Feel It follows Campbell's successful blues formula mixing subdued guitar, heavy rhythms, horns, and emphasized vocals. With a cast of writers including Hank Cochran, Lionel Ritchie, and others, Little Milton puts his blues chemistry to work transforming the covers into viable tunes in his manner. Recorded at Muscle Shoals Sound Studios, this biscuit shimmers as award material.
The rhythm section backing Campbell here is George Lawrence on drums and David Hood on the bass. Little Milton handles all lead vocals, and shares a duet with guest Dorothy Moore. Will McFarlane helps with the ax chores and Clayton Ivey is heard on the keys. Background vocalists include Valerie Kashimura, Freddie Young, Jewel Bass, and Quandra Brooks. Milton produces the platter with Tommy Couch and Wolf Stephenson.
"A Juke Joint In My House" starts it all off with pleading vocals leading into "Born Yesterday". The duet with Moore, "If You Give Me Your Heart" is resplendent in its soul quotient while "I Gotta Get Away From You" and "You're Givin' Me The Blues" put out the tin pan alley blues. He hits the covers with a toastful accentuation and closes with a tender treatment of Lionel Ritchie's "Lady". Another classic to chalk up to Milton; this will continue his southern soul/blues reputation, satisfy the Little Milton fans, and add more listeners to his corral. There is an expected elegance due when you plop on the Little Milton; this biscuit has all that and more!
Malaco Music Group; 3023 W. Northside Drive; Jackson, MS 39213:
or, www.malaco.com
This review is copyright © 2001 by Mark A. Cole, and Blues On Stage at: www.mnblues.com, all rights reserved. Copy, duplication or download prohibited without written permission. For permission to use this review please send an E-mail to Ray Stiles.