Arthur Adams Kicks Up the Dust with Soulful Blues on "Kick Up Some Dust"

Arthur Adams – Kick Up Some Dust

Cleopatra Records

https://cleorecs.com

11 tracks – 46 minutes Arthur Adams, a veteran blues artist born on Christmas Day in 1943, has graced the music scene for decades. His journey began with early influences from the church choir, and after studying music at Tennessee State University, he emerged as a sought-after session musician in Los Angeles. With an impressive career that includes collaborations with Quincy Jones, Hugh Masekela, B.B. King, and Bonnie Raitt, among others, Adams has contributed significantly to the blues landscape.

"Kick Up Some Dust," his latest release under Cleopatra Records, showcases Adams's enduring passion for the blues. This album, his fifth since a revival in 1999, features eleven tracks drawing from personal observations and conversations. Adams reunites with a cadre of talented friends, including drummers James Gadson and Greg Brown, keyboardist Hense Powell, and bassist Freddie Washington, creating a cohesive and seasoned ensemble.

The opening track, "It Makes Me Mad," sets the tone with a soulful lament about unreciprocated feelings. Adams's expressive guitar work takes center stage, exhibiting shades of B.B. King's influence. "Starving For Your Love" maintains the soulful groove, featuring poignant lyrics and a searing guitar solo that pays homage to the blues greats.

"Hold on to Me" is a heartfelt plea for stability and commitment, promising "smooth sailing from now on." In "Fly With Me To Paradise," Adams invites his muse to escape on his metaphorical plane, promising joy, happiness, and the company of friends. The instrumental "Kick Up Some Dust" follows, injecting a burst of funk energy into the album with its punchy groove and Adams's skillful guitar work.

The ballad "I Love You More" showcases Adams's tender side, expressing enduring love and admiration. "University of Hard Knocks" is a robust blues anthem, imparting lessons learned through life's challenges. Adams's expressive vocals and soulful guitar playing make this track a standout.

The infectious funk continues with "Done Got Over You," featuring spirited backing vocals by The Waters Sisters. "Cool as a Cucumber" injects a touch of rock jive, portraying the charismatic figure who is the envy of all. "Thieves of Love" slows down the pace, narrating a clandestine affair with a sense of urgency and secrecy. The album concludes with the second instrumental, "A Bag of Soul," allowing Adams's guitar to have the final say.

Arthur Adams's guitar prowess is a consistent highlight throughout the album, and his vocals evoke comparisons to soul blues legends like Bobby "Blue" Bland. The expertly crafted instrumentation, coupled with Adams's seasoned storytelling, creates an engaging and enjoyable listening experience. As a bonus, fans can anticipate a special tour later in 2023, where Adams will join forces with Shirley King, B.B. King's daughter, for a tribute to the blues icon, promising stories and music that resonate with the soul. "Kick Up Some Dust" stands as a testament to Arthur Adams's enduring musical legacy, a soulful journey that continues to captivate audiences.