Is this the world’s best kept secret? For those who have not heard of Eric Gales, this is his 18th studio album. Signed by Electra in ’91 as a guitar prodigy, you’d be forgiven for thinking that he had disappeared between the cracks. The last couple of albums has seen his popularity rise, and rightly so, as he deserves everything coming his way.
This album kicks off with Intro, an absolute monster of a short instrumental piece that sets the tone for the record with its funky grooves. First song is Somethings Gotta Give, featuring the soulful vocals of B. Slide, which gives the song a great commercial vibe. Funky nirvana is next with Whatcha Gonna Do with a serious funky vibe with some killer playing by Eric. The funk continues with It Just Beez That Way that almost goes to fusion territory.
By now you should all be groovin’ around which ever space you listen to these funky vibes. You just don’t here records like this anymore. Killer!!!!
Side 1 closes out with Southpaw Serenade, a slow blues groove that features Doyle Bramhall II on a guest solo. A great soulful tune. Over to Side 2 we go with How Do I Get You, which has a great hook and would make a great single. Reaching For Change starts with a fat blues rock riff that reminds me of Kings X – plus a ripping solo is supplied by Eric. Somebody Lied is next up with its off-time groove. The Beatles classic With A Little Help From My Friends is next, which features the amazing Beth Hart on vocals. Which takes us to the close out track, Resolution, an instrumental track with a slight difference – it’s not all widdly-widdly but played with soul and invention, and like the first track, has plenty of use of the swell peddle.
And there you have it! The album bookended by two non-vocal tracks. Do your self, and your collection a favour, and bring some Eric Gales into your life. If by chance he plays near you, go and see him live, you won’t be disappointed.
9/10 from The Grooveman.
