The title of soulful jazz and blues songwriter Richard Wilson’s new album is really emblematic of his approach to creating music.

Basically - by freeing your mind and writing all original music that touch on the great musical genres in his DNA : jazz, blues, soul, gospel and bossanova.

The six new songs are expertly recorded by renowned producer/engineer (and film composer) Scott Bomar at the legendary Sam Phillips Recording in Memphis,TN.

The walk-in echo chamber is used to good effect as the album is vocal led and that old school warmth and echo really enhances the songs.

In fact the studio is basically unchanged from 1960 when it was established by Sam Phillips.

Vintage Neumann microphones and tube limiters and compressors capture the sounds in the live room.

Wilson is accompanied by Justin Walker on drums for a couple of tunes - the swinging “Will You Get To Heaven” and the jazz swing of “The Byrdland Waltz”. In fact Justins nickname is “The Swing King” and his effortless playing with brushes and thoughtful fills complement the vibe of the tracks superbly.

(Pictured L to R - Scott Bomar,Richard Wilson,Justin Walker)

Al Gamble also features on keyboards for the gospel “I Chased A Dream” evoking an Edwin Hawkins piano feel - as well as blues organ and beautiful jazz piano flourishes on “The Byrdland Waltz”.

(Pictured L to R - Al Gamble and Richard Wilson)

The songs really do stand up as the arrangements are simple and typically comprise of just vocals and guitar - all live takes , that reflect Wilson’s live shows as he plays solo.

This is an authentic album - a big slice of soul jazz goodness!

A songwriter digging deep and finding soulful inspiration in the great genres that have been left to us -and accompanied by some of the best musical talent in Memphis.

More info here:

https://richardwilsonmusic.com/