Ain’t No Good Man
Self-Released, 2021
8/10
Although this is Lisa St. Lou’s debut record, the accomplished singer has an impressive resume that includes time on Broadway and a master’s degree in opera, and with Ain’t No Good Man she pulls no punches lyrically while musically finds herself indebted to ‘60s soul.
The title track starts the listen with St. Lou’s sublime, expressive and soulful vocals guiding the warm brass, gospel flavor and powerful song craft, and “Girl, Get On” follows with a playful, bouncy approach of thumping drums, soothing backing vocals and frisky organ.
Elsewhere, the emotive and R&B influenced “You Better Don’t” soars high, while “Nothing Is Ever Enough (For A Man)” recruits spirited guitar work amid versatile singing from St. Lou and Irma Thomas as the precise piano work complements the rich landscape. “Whatcha’ Gonna Do”, the album’s best, then displays a lively duet that’s adventurous and undeniably charming.
The final two tracks, “Are You Ready” and “Flowers In The Rain”, keep the quality of the album consistent, where the former moves swiftly alongside a retro energy, and the latter unfolds poetically, even spiritually in its sublime finish.
In addition to Thomas, St. Lou also brings in Ivan Neville, Ian Neville and Tony Hall, among others, as the songstress delivers an empowering listen that embraces blues, funk, R&B and gospel ideas into a very enjoyable and accomplished first record.
Travels well with: Dumpstaphunk- Where Do We Go From Here; Diplomats Of Solid Sound- A Higher Place