Tito Jackson

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Under Your Spell

Gulf Coast Records/Hillside Global, 2021

8/10

Listen to Under Your Spell

The legendary Tito Jackson makes this debut on the Gulf Coast Records/Hillside Global label with an impressive start at his new home, where familiar names like George Benson, Claudette King, Bobby Rush and many others are in attendance for the diverse and timeless song craft.

“Wheels Keep Turning” gets the album off to a lively start with Jason Parfait and Ian Smith’s bright horns, and Darnell Neal’s playful bass as Jackson’s soulful pipes guide the bluesy romper, and the very relative “Love One Another” follows with Stevie Wonder on harmonica alongside Andre Britten’s precise rhythm guitar as the many vocalists make for a warm and wise message.

Further along, the spirited title track brings in the legendary Joe Bonamassa on guitar and Michael K. Jackson on rhythm guitar for the mesmerizing album highlight, while “Dyin Over Here” has Jackson showing us his guitar prowess alongside frisky drumming from Michael Harris. “You’re Gonna Push Me Too Far”, a funky and cozy tune, then recruits percussion from Rocc Thomas, drums by Kelvin ‘KT’ Thomas and organ/piano thanks to Brandon Adams for a superbly textured and groove friendly affair.

Deeper still, “All In The Family Blues” takes help from the revered Eddy Levert and a memorable sax solo courtesy of Eric Demmer, and “I Got Caught (Loving In A Dream)” exits the listen with contributions from Steve ‘Ice Buck’ Powell as Jackson and company finish the listen with a healthy and radiant version of the blues.

Jackson got his start in the Jackson 5 many decades ago, and remained in the industry for years before embarking on a solo career in the early 2000’s. Now approaching 70 years old, with his lifetime of experience and a healthy cast of musicians on board, though he might not be the most well known Jackson, what he lacks in mainstream attention he makes up for with a solid, fluid and genuine vision of song.

Travels well with: Joe Bonnamassa- Now Serving: Royal Tea Live From The Ryman; George Benson- Weekend In London