Joanne Shaw Taylor – Nobody’s Fool
KTBA Records – 2022
11 tracks; 45 minutes
Joanne Shaw Taylor, renowned for her blues prowess, takes a stylistic detour with her latest release, "Nobody’s Fool," where she gracefully maneuvers through rock and ballad territories. Following her 2021 blues-centric albums, "The Blues Album" and "Blues From The Heart," Taylor collaborates once again with co-producers Joe Bonamassa and Josh Smith, crafting a diverse set of 11 tracks that span 45 minutes.
Recorded in Los Angeles, Taylor brings together a stellar lineup, including the likes of Reese Wynans on B3, Calvin Turner on bass, Lemar Carter on drums, and Joe Bonamassa and Josh Smith on rhythm guitars. The album also features guest appearances, with Tina Guo on cello, Carmen Vandenberg contributing a guitar solo, and a dynamic horn section featuring Steve Patrick, Jeff Bailey, Barry Green, Matt Jefferson, Mark Douthit, and Jimmy Bowland.
The title track, "Nobody's Fool," kicks off the album with a robust riff reminiscent of George Harrison's "My Sweet Lord." Taylor's vocals shine, embodying the song's personal philosophy about relationships, setting the tone for what's to come. "Bad Blood" introduces an acoustic guitar with a Spanish/Mexican flair, narrating a tale of a relationship ending on a bitter note. "Won’t Be Fooled Again" offers a radio-friendly, pop-infused sound, enriched by a soaring solo from Joe Bonamassa.
The album skillfully alternates between heavier and lighter compositions. "Just No Getting Over You (Dream Cruise)" adds a touch of horns, revealing Taylor's enamored side. "Fade Away" presents a stripped-back ballad, showcasing Taylor's breathy vocals against a backdrop of solo piano and Tina Guo's cello. Following suit, "Then There’s You" brings forth a full-on rocker, while "Runaway" takes a lighter, folksy route.
One notable track on the album is the reprisal of The Eurythmics' "Missionary Man," co-written by Annie Lennox. Dave Stewart, who discovered Taylor at the age of 16, guests on this track, adding a nostalgic touch to the collection. "Figure It Out" intensifies the album with a frenetic tune and a distorted solo from Carmen Vandenberg. The delicate guitar work on "The Leaving Kind" and the soulful, horn-driven "New Love" round off the album, leaving listeners on a high note.
While "Nobody’s Fool" may not adhere to traditional blues conventions, Taylor's vocals and guitar mastery remain solid throughout. The album's strength lies in its diverse sonic palette, showcasing Taylor's versatility as an artist. In this departure from her blues roots, Taylor delivers a compelling collection that explores new musical dimensions, proving her artistry knows no bounds.
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