Silky smooth soul-pop with a richly orchestral 70s style and country hues by the high-voiced Fort Worth Texan singer-songwriter in this summery, honey-flavoured, highly polished fourth LP. Broad appeal as well as quality come together with an album at times reminiscent of Aaron Neville and brothers, with sweet songs about relationships, religion (see closer God Loves Everyone) and a love letter to his home town. Standouts include Marvin Gaye echoes on melancholy, atmospheric opener When A Man Cries, Laredo’s soulful R&B piano and acoustic guitar tribute to the Rio Grande area; the foot-stomping, summery Panther City, full of vivid landmarks, sounds and people with its free-flowing melody over a catchy beat and chorus; the intimate piano and steel guitar of Simplify and an ode to home comforts (“I can smell the gumbo”); the twittering bird calls and acoustic bliss of the short Teddy’s Tune; the classic 70s-style pop soul of the yearning love song Never Satisfied; and the gentle Latin and country grooves of Peaceful Place with slick rhythm guitar. Sunshine sweetness throughout then, topped of course by that fabulously butter-smooth voice. Out on Columbia Records.
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