Just Got Started
Gulf Coast, 2024
9/10
The sax player and vocalist Jimmy Carpenter brings his timeless blues ways to these 12 songs that recruit Christoffer ‘Kid’ Andersen, Jim Pugh and Derrick D’mar Martin, plus many guests.
The rich energy of the title track starts the listen with Carpenter’s smooth pipes alongside Jerry Jemmott’s playful bass and radiant sax, and “My Babe” follows with Mike Galisatus’ animated trumpet and Jack Sanford’s bright bari sax that illuminates the soaring delivery.
In the middle, the intimate spirit of “Shining Star” benefits much from Andersen’s cozy organ and plenty of emotive backing vocals, while “Keep On Stepping” brings back the horns and no lack of grooves to the upbeat album highlight that makes great use of Martin’s meticulous drumming.
Closer to the end, the bouncy fun of “Leap Of Faith” recruits Lisa ‘Little Baby’ Andersen’s powerful pipes to the dance floor ready mood, and “Midnight Blue” exits with Jim Pugh’s warm keys complementing Carpenter’s heartfelt sax for the dynamic and textured finish.
An excellent mashing of blues, soul, funk and rock, Carpenter and his company excel in full and tender moments, and it makes every track present worth repeated visits.
Travels well with: Duke Robillard- Roll With Me; Brock Davis- Everyday Miracle