As the original vocalist for Anson Funderburgh's Rockets, Darrell Nulisch was featured on the inaugural release on the late, lamented Black Top label. After a second outing with Anson, Darrell went on to work with Ronnie Earl before releasing a fine disc of his own for the label.
His next outing was called "BlueSoul," a title that summed up his musical philosophy quite succinctly; for a number of years now he's been moving toward a sublime synthesis of the two forms. "Times Like These," Darrell's third release on New England's Severn Records, sees his vision fully realized.
Darrell's possessed of a fine if not terribly remarkable voice, with just a hint of Texas drawl; but he's unquestionably a superior singer, somehow able to convey a wealth of emotion without the need to resort to histrionics. He's backed here by a fine band; although advance copies don't list credits, I'd be inclined to guess it's the usual suspects, including long-time cohort Johnny Moeller on guitar and label mate Benjie Porecki on keys.
The lack of supporting information also means I can't list song titles with any guarantee of accuracy; but I can say with absolute certainty that the music is indeed a perfect blend of deep soul and Texas-influenced blues, all done with Darrell's usual impeccable taste. Just listen to the gently swaying second cut, and the way the horns and organ alternately accentuate and support each other; or the third track, a greasy Jimmy Reed-style blues where Darrell's thick-toned harp is used sparingly to maximum effect.
Like Darrell's almost laconic singing, arrangements throughout are relaxed, the grooves invariably easy going; that's not by any means to imply a lack of passion, it's just that it's tempered by a restraint that comes only with maturity. Left behind are the mercurial exuberance of youth and its unbridled energy; in their stead, Darrell offers the considered reflections of a hard-earned wisdom and experience.
If it's over-the-top pyrotechnics you're after you'll probably find this a bit on the sleepy side; bluz-rockers needn't apply. But if your tastes run to music that's carefully crafted with intelligence and taste, if you appreciate the merits of a subtle and well-placed accent and can live without blistering barrages of notes . . . if you don't mind equal doses of soul mixed in with the twelve-bars, and can handle a little romance as well . . . well, Darrell's as good as it gets.
An absolutely stellar outing by one of the best singers around. This is one for the ages!
Severn Records, Inc.
P.O. Box 1450 Millersville, MD, 21108
Web: www.severnrecords.com
Phone: 877-923-2275
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