Customer Reviews

Nobody's Fault But Mine

5 star:		(10)
4 star:		(1)
3 star:		(0)
2 star:		(0)
1 star:		(2)

 

 

It's always a dangerous game with cover albums. Either you really have a new take on great songs or you "really don't." Thanks to Edwin McCain, we REALLY do! From start to finish, this album delivers like crazy. If you're a fan, you probably knew deep down that Edwin really always did have a soulful voice, but until now, we have not heard it full stop. It's almost as if he was born at the wrong time. If he were of age in the 60's, he would have been doing his thing with Otis and the rest of the gang. Well, he's certainly doing it now. It sounds like he has truly put his own spin all these amazing classic soul tunes. At the same time, it doesn't sound planned, which is probably why it's so good. Back in the day, none o these artists planned anything. It just came out. That's certainly what happened here. It's raw, unadulterated, perfectly produced (in that it sounds like the producer just let it happen as it happened) and so fun on top of it all.

This is the perfect album to take on a Summer's drive, top down and wind blowing your hair back. From the very cool New Orleans vibe of "Can I Get a Witness" to the feel-good "Good Times" and the amazing touching ballad with Joan Osborne. "Dreams To Remember," this album does not let down. Most of the time, you just wanna dance and be happy.

Now for the band: Eddie Bayers, typically known for his country stylings, is an amazing soul drummer...never too much...always tasty...always in the pocket; Manny Yanes seems to be perfectly simple and laying it down - never too much; Ivan Neville...well, what can you say? The keyboards never sounded so sweet!; Larry Chaney plays a mean guitar! - and he's just as soulful as the legendary Steve Cropper, who also rips on the album; Finally, there's Edwin. It was like he was born to sing this music. If you read the liner notes, you will see a great story of how Edwin really got started in music as a child and his early soul influences are finally recognized on this masterpiece!

With all the almost amateur efforts of other veteran artists out there, this album never lets down! It's pure, soulful and timeless.

I couldn't agree more with what Groove Daddy has said about "Nobody's Fault But Mine". Read his review for the best details about this album. Those of us who are ole timey fans of EMB know all too well that Edwin has been grooving soulfully for years, but this particular album affords him the opportunity to spotlight the very music that sparked the musician in him from the start. What a gift, to be able to rejoice, revisit, and revive the creations that first gave you life! In this, Edwin does these treasures justice, and all those involved do their best work. If you say you are disappointed, you ain't got no soul baby! This is SOUL at it's best, but of course, we have been spoiled by EMB for years. We expect no less from our guys. They have out done themselves, thanks guys! If I were the original artists I could not be more honored by what these talented folks have put together. I can't help but say, if you aren't an Edwin fan, there MUST be something wrong with you. Drop your preconceived notions, close your eyes, open your ears, your mind, your heart, and you can't help but enjoy!!!

I am so happy I bought this album. Though I was never a big fa, a friend recommended I buy this since I DO like soul music. At first, I was doubtful that McCain could pull off these songs which have mostly been done so well by the original performers. Wow, was I wrong! Not only does Edwin sing the songs brilliantly, he actually has managed to bring something new to the material, ie his own take on these amazing classics. That is no easy task. However, he did it. It's as if I am hearing them for the first time and I really, really like what I hear. It's not just Edwin either. The whole band is just so in the groove that the magic seems to roll of their fingertips. Though the album notes suggest this band was brought together by the producer, it sounds like they've been playing together for years. The other major plus is the way it was recorded, just like the original. It's raw and dirty, not all polished and smelling nice. That's what made these songs great...not too much thinking or over-production. I like Hyams, the producer, for this reason. So many would have gone for the slick production value, but this is just greasy and nasty like it should be.I congratulate the artist and musicians on this album who, obviously, know when to just chill and LET the music happen. Best album of the year in my opinion!

It has been a while since Edwin has given us an album that showcases the rasp and rage and rumble of his voice and the depth of his musical roots. Born in Greenville, SC and steeped in his early performance days in Charleston, SC (with friends like Darius Rucker of Hootie and The Blowfish hitting the radio airwaves about the same time), Edwin has gone back to his roots and the music of his heart with this CD, and it shows in the final product.

Ed is more than a balladeer and more than a "two trick pony." This is the perfect album for a summer drive, a quiet night at home with someone you like, or as background music for a late summer barbeque or beachside bonfire. If you aren't swaying in your seat or bouncing around the family room with your kids by the fourth track, turn it up! All of us raised below the Mason-Dixon line (and many above!) will appreciate the production of this album, its mix of pop hits and little-known gems, and the unique but subtle re-working of these southern soul classics.

In this effort, an accomlished singer-songwriter has looked in the rearview mirror and honored those songwriters that gave him roots and wings. Pour the sweet tea (or Southern Comfort!), take your shoes off, and wiggle your toes in the warmth of this musical gift. It will be one of my favorites for years to come.

Thanks, Edwin, for making this ride as sweet, sweaty and soulful as ever.

It seems like people have been giving this album pretty long reviews. Since a lot of what I feel has already been said, - great band (Ivan Neville, Eddie Bayers, Larry Chaney, Manny Yanes), great producer, and a lot of fun, I will keep mine short. It's just a great album. Summer is just the perfect time to release it too. It literally makes you want to get a 57 Checy, put the top down and cruse a highway by the sea. However, it's equally as good with a modern car and a sun roof. Jokes aside, it is seriously a great listen and Edwin's voice is the most powerful I have ever heard him, yes, even more than "I'll Be," which was a great song. I only wish more artists would do fun, Summery albums like this one.

Edwin has a wonderful voice with a wide range. The band is awesome as well. Just saw him live, a great show....try not to miss it!

A perfect summer record. Edwin sings the heck out of these soul standards and the band plays furiously and sympathetically behind him. Props have to go to Ivan Neville on keyboards...he really adds some of that New Orleans grit to the proceedings.

I'm really digging this CD and highly recommend it to anyone that loves R&B/Soul music.

LOVE Edwin McCain. I have been going to his concerts since he was a no name and love him just as much now as I did back then. He is a wonderful person on and off stage.

Another wonderful album from Edwin McCain. If you like his previous work, you will love this album.

A must have for any fan of southern blues/rock and a must have for any Edwin McCain fan!!This CD takes you to another place and time.