Alabama Mike – Stuff I’ve Been Through
Little Village – 2023
11 tracks; 61 minutes Alabama Mike, also known as Benjamin, graces us with his soulful vocals and captivating storytelling in his latest solo venture, "Stuff I've Been Through," released under Little Village in 2023. This album, marking his fifth solo endeavor since 2005, showcases Mike's prowess as a vocalist and harmonica player alongside a stellar cast of musicians. Producer Kid Andersen on guitar, Bobby Young on drums, and guest appearances by Rusty Zinn and Anson Funderburgh contribute to the musical richness.
The title track, "Stuff I've Been Through," opens the album with a powerful proclamation of resilience and gratitude. Against a backdrop of dramatic strings, potent horns, and Jerry Jemmott's foundational bass, Mike reflects on overcoming life's challenges: "Stuff I've been through would have killed the average man, but by the grace of God, here I stand." It's a grand production that sets the stage for an album that seamlessly blends serious introspection with comedic flair.
In the funky and bouncing "Fat Shame," Alabama Mike confronts societal judgments about body image, delivering a message of self-acceptance with a catchy refrain: "I'm fat, I'm lit, you can't tell me s**t!" The track combines humor with social critique and showcases Mike's ability to tackle serious topics with a playful touch.
The slow blues "This Ain't No Disneyland" offers a poignant commentary on the harsh realities beneath California's façade of glamour. With mournful trumpets and backing vocalists adding depth, Mike paints a vivid picture of a state where dreams often collide with disappointment.
"Goodbye Tamika" takes a soulful turn, celebrating the end of a relationship that failed to meet Mike's standards. The track grooves with infectious rhythm, highlighted by dynamic horns and a terrific overall groove. It's a standout moment on the album, showcasing Mike's versatility and storytelling prowess.
In "King Cock," Mike adopts a classic blues trope, weaving a tale of the strutting rooster who rules the barnyard. The metaphorical imagery and lively instrumentation make for an engaging blues narrative. "Pine Bluff Arkansas" pays homage to the allure of a 'big fine woman' in a bluesy swirl, featuring Mike's harmonica work and a delightful interplay of horns.
The album delves into relationship troubles once more with "Woman On The Warpath." Heavy production, big guitars, and commanding horns accompany Mike's expressive vocals, creating another standout track that explores the complexities of romantic entanglements.
"Mr. DC" sees Alabama Mike channeling a suave soul singer persona, delivering a half-spoken, half-sung ode to his ability to uplift spirits as "Damage Control." It's a smooth, groovy number that showcases a different facet of Mike's vocal delivery.
A return to "Fat Shame" in its second part wraps up the studio album with flair, and the accompanying video on YouTube adds an extra layer of enjoyment to this lively track.
Adding to the album's richness are two live cuts. "Mississippi," recorded in San José, CA, features Rick Estrin on harmonica, with Mike working the crowd and delivering a blues tribute to the state. The live rendition of "God Is With You" in Basel, Switzerland, serves as a captivating finale, featuring Lisa Andersen's gospel-soaked vocals.
Alabama Mike's "Stuff I've Been Through" is a soulful odyssey that navigates through life's tapestry, blending serious contemplation with comedic charm. The album's musical diversity and Mike's engaging storytelling make it a standout contribution to the blues genre, worthy of recognition in upcoming awards.
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