Bobby Rush – All My Love For You
Deep Rush Records/Thirty Tigers – 2023
10 tracks; 41 minutes
Bobby Rush, the indefatigable blues icon at the age of 89, unveils his latest musical gem, "All My Love For You," a testament to his enduring passion for storytelling, fun, and, of course, that unmistakable Bobby Rush funky groove. The album, consisting entirely of original compositions, provides a poignant glimpse into Rush's reflections during his battle with COVID, showcasing his resilience, love for life, and his unrelenting commitment to the blues.
Riding on the momentum of a storied career that spans over six decades, Bobby Rush has not only accumulated numerous awards, including two Grammys, a Blues Blast Magazine Lifetime Achievement award, and 14 Blues Music Awards but has also shared his life's journey in the 2021 autobiography "I Ain’t Studdin’ You: My American Blues Story."
In a recent NPR interview, Rush expressed his gratitude for the recognition he's received, emphasizing the joy he finds in each day. "Every day I get up is fun because when I think about what it could have been, I’m so thankful for what it is," he remarked. The album, true to Rush's words, strips down the music to its bare storytelling, reminiscent of the blues legends who inspired him.
Joining Rush on this musical venture are Dexter Allen on guitar and bass, along with Joey Robinson on drums and keyboards. This three-piece ensemble, led by Rush's harmonica and vocals, demonstrates exceptional chemistry, resulting in a tightly produced record that pays homage to the themes of fun, funk, and love.
"All My Love For You" kicks off with "I'm Free," an autobiographical journey through Rush's early years, showcasing solid harp playing and the signature funk that defines his sound. The album seamlessly navigates through various blues-infused landscapes, from the toe-tapping groove of "Running In And Out" to the playful "TV Mama," enriched by Robinson's grinding keyboard baseline.
"You're Gonna Need A Man Like Me" takes a nostalgic detour to Delta blues standards, offering a haunting melody and a soulful harmonica outro. "I'm The One" emerges as a Bobby Rush anthem, blending robust storytelling, a driving backbeat, and sensational musicianship from the small but mighty studio ensemble.
With tracks like "One Monkey Can Stop A Show" and "I'll Do Anything For You," Rush continues to showcase his storytelling prowess, backed by a foundation of traditional blues draw and infectious rhythms. The album concludes with "I Got A Proposition For You," a piano and keyboard-infused number that emphasizes the musicianship of the ensemble.
"All My Love For You" cements Bobby Rush's status as an elder statesman of the blues, bridging the past with the present. It's a musical odyssey that encapsulates the spirit of a man who, even in the face of adversity, remains a true gift to the world of blues. With this latest release, Bobby Rush proves once again that the blues is not just a genre; it's a living, breathing force that thrives in the hands of a master storyteller.
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