The title of this disc belies the method of
the creation of this recording. Not to condemn the use of
computer programs, for they enable artists on a budget to
produce their music with the use of synthetic horns, strings and
drums, but the strength of "A New Point of View" is due in part
to its authentic, old school sound.
It is a rare thing, nowadays, to read the
liner notes of a CD and see that the cello was played by Alison
Bazala, for example. The horns and strings were arranged and
conducted by Willie Henderson. In fact there are far too many
musicians to mention here, but I would be remiss if I failed to
mention the core of the band:
Tad Robinson: vocals and harmonica; Alex
Shultz: guitars; Kevin Anker: keyboards; Robb Stupka: drums; and
Victor Williams doing the percussion.
"A New Point of View" is a true
collaboration of composers and musicians, but it is Tad
Robinson's voice that is the anchor for this effort. Robinson's
voice is reminiscent of Marvin Gaye, Robert Cray, with a lot of
Bobby Blue Bland thrown in for good measure. His range is
impressive, but it is the emotion, the heart and soul of Tad
Robinson which allows him to keep pace with these professional
musicians. He plays a damn good harmonica, as well.
"A New Point of View," one of the best R&B,
Blues, Soul efforts in a long time. Please note that the term
R&B used here represents its original genre: Rhythm and Blues.
