Leon Russell: A Mighty Flood
Review
Now in his mid-sixties, Leon Russell began his protracted career at the age of 14, playing piano in an Oklahoma nightclub. Since then the eclectic musician has gone on to produce and/or play with artists as varied as Bob Dylan, Frank Sinatra, Ike and Tina Turner, George Harrison, The Rolling Stones, The Byrds, Bobby Darin, Wayne Newton, Sam Cooke, Johnny Mathis, Herb Albert and Tijuana Brass, the Beach Boys and Hank Wilson. See what I mean? Known for his vibrant road-house piano style, his raspy vocals, and his independent music choices, Russell is a bit of a chameleon, writing rock, country, blues, and gospel songs with equal fluency. His signature style is an energetic fusion of all four; I still can’t figure out how someone with his level of talent has stayed on the down low for so long.
In recent years, Russell has stayed even further from the musical spotlight, but still quietly releasing an album every year or two for the past decade. “A Mighty Flood” is his first full gospel project, 11 original songs of inspiration dropped in 2006. They definitely lack the wild zeal of his early years, but it would be too much to ask him to stop time, I suppose. The album contains no credit information, but he’s added a lot of strings to several tracks, giving them a heavily orchestrated sound unusual for him. “I See the Light,” “Say Yes to Jesus,” and “When Jesus Comes” feel a bit smothered to me, traditional both lyrically and instrumentally. They’re a bit churchy for my taste, but the opening title track, a bouncy retelling of Noah’s story, contains more of the Leon Russell vitality and humor so sorely missed. “Golden Wings” is also reminiscent of the early days, beat-ridden and soulful. Russell has always known how to best use his backup singers, wringing the life out of ‘em at times. Several tracks feature the banjo prominently, veering off to his country roots, including “Judge Not” and the traditionally structured “Inside the Angels.” “The Road to Jericho” hints at the old Russell vocal madness, and serves up some sweet guitar noodling, just enough to make you want more.
Even with the passing of time, Leon Russell still has more than enough personality and flavor to hold your interest through “A Mighty Flood.” Spend a fascinated half hour on Leon Russell’s website for more information.
What do you think about this article?
Latest Articles