Make Them Dance
Catfood, 2025
8/10
The award winning blues singer, Johnny Rawls, is supported by an all star band for these 10 new songs, where dancing is highly recommended and inevitable.
The soulful spirit of “So Cold” opens with Rawls’ expressive pipes alongside Steve Potts’ thumping drums and Andy Roman’s playful sax solo, and “Dreams Of You” follows with a warm intimacy that’s heartfelt thanks to Bob Trenchard’s cozy bass and Rawls’ emotive singing.
In the middle, “Costs Too Much” makes great use of Will McFarlane’s rhythmic guitar amid some funk nods, while “Give It To Me” benefits much from Dan Ferguson’s well timed keys that suit Mike Middleton’s rich trumpet.
Closer to the end, the rich landscape of “Say That You Love Me” isn’t short on melody for the album’s best, and “The Long Road” exits with animated horns, a charming rhythm section and Rawls’ smooth voice guiding the timeless blues finish.
Rawls’ career has lasted over 50 years and he brings a wealth of experience and talent to these exceptional blues and soul songs that prove his presence hasn’t waned over the decades.
Travels wells with: Jimmy Vivino- Gonna Be 2 Of Those Days; Blue Moon Marquee- New Orleans Sessions