Let The Gods Sing
Big Legal Mess, 2022
8/10
A pioneer in the are of funk and psyche ideas, the singer-songwriter and guitarist Herman Hitson has also collaborated with Hendrix and is a chitlin circuit veteran. Here, his groove friendly brand of soul rock finds itself in great company for 9 very diverse tunes fleshed out by producers Bruce Watson and Will Sexton.
The title track opens the listen with Will McCarley’s drums and percussion making an impression alongside Sexton’s guitar acrobatics in the soulful and psyche filled climate, and “Ain’t No Other Way” follows with plenty of rhythm and melody amid the soaring, raw vocals.
Halfway through, “All I Want Is You” jangles with playful organ from Al Gamble to complement the gritty singing, while “Feast Of Ants” flows with a stylish mystery that’s instrumental and quite fascinating.
Near the end, “Stray Bullet” showcases Mark Stuart’s precise bass surrounded by a more ominous haze, and “Yampertown Funk” exits the listen with Art Edmaiston’s horns adding much flavor to the southern spirit of the cautious finish.
The tunes here are among Hitson’s best, as evidenced by the funk, rhythm and blues, soul, hard blues, and psychedelia present, and it leaves an indelible mark.
Travels well with: Dedicated Men Of Zion- Can’t Turn Me Around; Various Artists- Sacred Soul Of North Carolina