Emory Joseph - Labor Spirits +Album Reviews

A revelation

02/12/2003

(5 out of 5 stars)

"This is about the most amazing debut of this or any other year. You may never have heard of this guy, but I suspect he'll be around a while, so rustle up some barbecue, pull up a chair and settle in. It rocks, it's tender, it's melodic and catchy. Each song captures something priceless -- a story, a moment, an emotion -- and puts it out in a way that you're gonna like.The picking is nothing short of extraordinary, with an all-star lineup of musicians including Levon Helm, T-Bone Wolk, Jon Carroll, Mike Marshall, Kenny Aronoff, Myron Dove and more of that caliber. Wow. I hope this album gets the play it deserves."

Rhum and Coffee and Heaven

M. L. Wyatt | Redford, MI USA | 02/14/2003

(5 out of 5 stars)

"This debut album deserves to be heard! Emory Joseph is an amazing songwriter and a soulful singer. I don't know where his roots are but they go deep. Some blues, some folk, some twang, and some down south blend into a thing of beauty. Put this one in your heavy rotation. Previous reviews have mentioned the stellar line-up, so I won't repeat it, but it's obvious what all those musicians saw in Emory's work.Absolute "Don't Miss" tracks include Carolina Princess, Rhum and Coffee, The Same, and Early in the Morning (a real heartbreaker). If the listening crowd is old enough to know better, be sure to check out the hilarious hidden track."

Try It, You'll Like It!

Ralph Page | Simi Valley, CA USA | 02/24/2003

(5 out of 5 stars)

"Emory Joseph has cooked up an amazing CD. With help of some excellent layered backup from T-Bone Wolk, Kenny Aronoff and some others I can't recall.
My favorite cut is 'The Same', a moody ballad, but the rest of the CD comes in a close second. Earthy lyrics mixed with folksy, bluesy (is that a word?)acoustic backup, all telling a story that you'll want to hear.
I really like everything about this collection of songs."

A Fine, Fine Performer

D. L. Rathgeb | CARMICHAEL, CA United States | 05/21/2004

(5 out of 5 stars)

"Having seen Emory Joseph perform live recently, and having already kicked myself for not buying an autographed copy on the spot, I'm now making up for my mistake. This is a fine, fine performer with songs that have texture, character and humanity. A welcome addition to anyone's musical shelf. Buy it, and then go see him live!"

Peep_the_Sot liqueurs it up!

D. L. Rathgeb | 02/23/2003

(5 out of 5 stars)

"The influences are obvious, but one need not mentionthem since EJ sets himself apart quite distinctly! Chuffing right off the top is 'Carolina Princess'giving us an excursion that shouldn't be denied if oneknows a thing or two about fun! While the song leavesone hip-shaking, try adding a shuffle while pouringinto 'Rhum and Coffee'. Have we the next best thing to Professor Longhair andRockin' Sidney? These two rib-sticking numbers areundeniable standouts and great openers one of whichfeatures Levon Helm and quite suitably so. A compositional shift in 'The Same' offers anexquisite melody that very much compliments EJ's voicewhich manages to take on every tale he tells withconviction. This is one pretty song! Initially not crazy about 'Trinkets' and then itmounts and builds and grows and so not a loser in thelot yet! Never one to linger with songs about pain but 'Earlyin the Morning' allows the narrator to get you throughthe night! Not sure if 'Daddy John' is autobiographical, but thecompelling organ and instrumental diversity tells meit is. Back on the rails to 'Be Home Baby' anothertoe-tapping mover and you can feel the hug! Greatguitar pickin'! And yet another pitch in voice! Can you say 'Work toDo'? ... This band cooks! 'Sweet William' is simply another wonderfully melodicstory that showcases Emory's ability to capture hisaudience and wonder what's next which leads us to myfavourite of the lot, but not before giving us a bitof quackery which somehow fits right in amidst thisvery novel release. 'Family Dog' completes this winning mix and againfeatures Levon Helm. If Mr. Emory has any more bonesburied it's best he start digging them up! Compulsive listening and a great addition to any musical library!"

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	Emory Joseph Labor & Spirits Genres: Country, Alternative Rock, Pop, Rock
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