The Louisiana Record
Gulf Coast, 2022
10/10
Listen to The Louisiana Record
The inimitable sax player Jimmy Carpenter is in excellent company as he fleshes out a Louisiana themed cover album that embraces rock’n’roll, blues, soul and New Orleans influences by artists like Fats Domino, Allen Toussaint and Dr. John.
The listen gets off to an energetic start with the bouncy and rhythmic appeal of “I Hear You Knocking”, where Carpenter’s booming voice and soulful sax benefits from Wayne Maureau’s thumping drums, and “I Got Loaded” follows with an infectious spirit that showcases Mike Zito’s melodic guitar in the dance floor ready delivery.
“All These Things” arrives in the middle and moves with an intimate appeal that illuminates John Gros’ reflective keys alongside Carpenter’s powerful voice, while “Cry To Me” spotlights Casandra Faulconer’s strategic bass lines in the cautious, blues-rocker.
Deeper still, “Bring It On Home To Me” is full of cozy sax solos amid the warm rhythm section, and “Rockin’ At Cosimo’s” exits with a timeless blues-rock instrumental where all the players emit their respective strengths with precision.
Though he lives in Las Vegas now, Carpenter resided in New Orleans from 2004-2016, and that period left a significant mark on his musicianship, which is quite evident across this melodic, groove filled and laid back masterpiece.
Travels well with: Annika Chambers- Kiss My Sass; Todd Sharpville- Medication Time