No Dark In America [Maroon]

The eclectic, eccentric, and irresistibly ebullient Rosco Gordon sounds so full of life on these tracks.

Whether attempting to lift the spirits of post-9/11 America on the title cut, conjuring a festive romp through "A Night in Rio," or exhibiting his unique sense of humor on novelty numbers like "Cheese & Crackers" and "You Look Bad When You're Naked," Gordon remains an all-American original. The Memphis native cut his musical teeth with the likes of Rufus Thomas and Ike Turner in the early 1950s, distinguishing himself with the soulful playfulness of his songwriting and the off-kilter shuffle of his signature piano style. For this release, producer Lij enlisted the support of younger Nashville rockers in what was plainly a labor of love for all concerned. Though Gordon's reputation rests with lighter fare, sophisticated balladry such as "Girl in My World," "You Don't Care About Nothing," and "When Baby Come Home"--worthy of a Charles Brown--shows the depth of his artistry.

—
Don McLeese