The Fortunate Few – Isn’t That So
Antone Music
10 songs time – 45:20
This British amalgamation of musicians, assembled by drummer Romek Parol (The Pirates, Chicken Shack, Eric Bell) consists of Paul Cox (Frankie Miller’s Full House, John Slaughter, Micky Moody, Paul Cox Band) on soulful lead vocals, Dave “Munch” Moore on keyboards, guitarist Mick McCarney (Daniel O’Donnell), and Billy Robinson on bass (Quarterdeck). They offer a blend of R&B, soul, funk, roots music with their own recipe. All the songs are covers, some less known, but all are given a quality interpretation.
“Fundamental Things”, best known by Bonnie Raitt’s version, gets kind of a James Brown groove highlighted by Dave’s funky Hammond organ stylings. Jesse Winchester’s title song “Isn’t That So” is funked up from a folkie song to a more modern vibe enhanced by piano and organ. The soulful vocals of Paul Cox are spot on as usual on “I Wouldn’t Treat A Dog”, best known for Bobby “Blue” Bland’s treatment. The guitar, piano and organ blend well here. Another Bonnie Raitt tune, “If You Need Somebody”, gains credibility via Paul’s scratchy-soulful delivery.
The sing-song “The Whole Enchilada” (Keb Mo’) is nicely uplifting. Great organ washes. Now it is ballad time with the wistful “Come On Home”. The organ progresses from being underneath to some brief soloing. Of all things, The Pirates’ “Don’t Fool Around With Love”, co-written by guitar icon Mick Green has an infectious guitar riff. Nifty organ solo as well. A jazzy era Carlos Santana guitar leads into Tony Joe White’s “Gonna Look Good In Blues”. Then a beautifully toned guitar solo later in the song.
The band knocks out a worthy version of “Work To Do”. Originally by The Isley Brothers, and later The Average White Band. BB King’s “Never Make Your Move Too Soon” allows stretched out guitar and piano solos with good results. The guys go out with John Hiatt’s slow ballad “Lover’s Will”. Paul’s vocal here is higher and yearning.
The band has delivered an authentically soulful collection of heartfelt songs, drenched in emotion. The musicianship is first rate and right on time. Paul Cox has the emotion part down pat. The rest of the band supports him at every turn. Not blues but excellently performed music. Do your ears a favor!
