Charles Tiner – Good Soul
self release
www.charlestinermusic.com
12 songs time – 60:09
Chicago singer-pianist-organist Charles Tiner’s second CD surely lives up to its’ title-Good Soul. Possessing a powerful and expressive voice and delivery, he and the musicians infuse their music with soul, gospel, preaching, blues, funk all rolled into a righteous stew. Charles’ singing grabs you and takes you on a spiritual ride. He has gathered a group of players that are sympathetic to his intent. He managed to corral a plethora of hot guitar players. He wrote all but one song.
His hearty voice is matched by his commanding organ on “Be A Man”. John Virgin rips off some nasty guitar licks here as well. He takes a cool stroll along with Theodore Fisher’s wailing sax on “Bad Woman”. He professes his need for a bad woman. Clipton Smith keeps the guitar goodness going. “Blue Moon” is a preachy soul modern classic. Charles’ stern voice intertwines with Chris Camp’s wandering harmonica on “Don’t Bau Me Nun”.
The funky soul of “Night Rider” conjures up a midnight journey through the dark and mysterious city. The vocal drips with cool. Thunderstorm sounds and Theodore “Theo” Fisher’s sax lead into the dramatic vocal and continuing sax magic on “Peace By The River”. The late Conrad Lee handles bass and guitar on “Stick Around”, a love song to the blues.
What is a soul record without a slow soul ballad? “She Made A Move On Me” fits the bill here with Ezra Casey adding his drama-filled piano goodness. “Two Wrongs Don’t Make It Right” is a slow burner that features Eddie Smith’s biting guitar, along with Charles’ smokin’ organ and piano. A gospel vibe imbues “Don’t Be A Fool Too Long”, including a spoken word sermon midway through.
The lone cover, Reverend Orvis Mays’ gospel song “Don’t Let The Devil Ride” gets revved-up via Eddie Smith’s guitar and the driving horn section. Things end on an optimistic note with “Put Your Money On Me” with just piano, upright bass and more of Chris Camp’s Charlie Musselwhite meets Toots Thielemans harmonica playing.
Charles Tiner and company keep soul music alive in a most refreshing and energetic way. The combination of emotive vocals, sincere lyrics and a sympathetic group of first call musicians make this a worthy addition to anyone’s music collection.
