In And Out by Carlos Johnson

15 Jun

Written by Donna Kimura
font size decrease font size increase font size
Print
Email

Carlos Johnson’s "In And Out" is a Japanese release that’s found its way home.That’s good because it would be a shame to miss the Chicago bluesman.

Johnson, who cites his hobbies as girls and fishing, has a voice that’s equal parts honey and whiskey. It’s a potent blend that makes his combination of blues-jazz-soul seem effortless.

On the CD opener, "Blues Man," Johnson casually tells the listener, "We don’t mess around." It’s not a boast, but a fact. The song would make any juke joint jump. "In And Out," however, isn’t afraid to shift gears. Johnson, who plays guitar, and his crew show equal skill on several slower numbers. For example, on "Key To The Highway," Johnson brings out the deep, warm tones in his voice, sounding every bit a soul singer. Although there’s good variety on the CD, much of it can be described as classic Chicago blues.

Johnson’s musical influences include Charlie Parker, B.B. King and Otis Rush.

The CD, which features a mix of covers and originals, was produced by Johnson, Akira Sakurai and Hideaki Tanaka for Mister Kelly’s label. It was recorded in Chicago and is distributed in the United States by Southport Records.

Additional Info

Artist / Group Name: Carlos Johnson
CD Title: In And Out
Genre: Blues
Year Released: 2004
Record Label: Mister Kellys'
Tracks: Blues Man; Leaving On The Next Train; Don’t Ever Leave Me; It Ain’t No Fun To Me; In And Out; Spirit; You Need a Man; Key To The Highway; Lisa; Do Do Do; Delta Blues.
Musicians: Carlos Johnson (guitar, vocal); Roosevelt Purifoy (keyboards); Sam Green (bass); Linard Stroud (drums). Special guest: Jesse Cross (vocals).
Label Website: -
Rating: Four Stars