Say Somethin’
Linus, 2020
8/10
Even if the name David Clayton-Thomas doesn’t ring a bell, we’ve all certainly heard Blood, Sweat & Tears, who enjoyed a glorious career that spanned multiple decades and produced countless hits. Clayton-Thomas has remained quite busy with his solo career, too, and here his inimitable pipes shine across 10 new tunes that are very clued in to today’s politics.
“Burwash” starts the listen with spirited acoustic guitar as Clayton-Thomas mixes talking and singing alongside the blues, and “The System” follows with soaring vocals in an intimate setting that’s sparse but powerful, all while addressing the prison system.
Further along, pianos guide the majestic and gospel influenced “Dear Mr. Obama”, while “This Town” offers cautious rhythm amid the vivid storytelling that’s present across the entire album and varies from eloquent to angry.
Back half highlights include the busy and playful “The Circus”, which certainly brings circus music qualities, and the slight prog-rock tendencies of “The Precipe”. “God’s Country” exits the listen soft and agile, as piano balladry aligns with emotive vocals from Clayton-Thomas as he embraces folk traditions.
Clayton-Thomas has much on his mind lately, and it all unfolds with the folk, R&B, blues, jazz, soul and rock influences that he’s built his name on. Probably most closely related to ‘70s rock, Say Somethin’ does a great job of illuminating the socio-political strife present today from one of the most legendary voices alive.
Travels well with: Chicago- VI Decades Live; Janiva Magness- Change In The Weather