Al Green's latest studio album "Lay It Down" is being touted by many as his best since 2003's "I can't stop". It certainly marks something of a departure for the soul legend as an eclectic coterie of hip-hop producers take charge of the production. These include Ahmir "?uestlove"* Thompson of the Roots and James Poyser, not to mention the numerous guest appearances made by such names as John Legend, Anthony Hamilton, and Corrine Bailey Rae.

The Reverend Green becomes the focal point of much adulation then on his own album and duly delivers some quality vocal performances laid over some velvety production. While Al's voice has roughened around the edges since the 70's, he makes use of his vocal idiosyncrasies to great effect on tracks such as "Take Your Time" and "Standing In The Rain". The overall effect is something like atonement for the sins of Saturday nights with the music of Sunday mornings. "Take Your Time" which features Corrine Bailey is definitely the stand out track on the album.

subtle, smoky grooves

?uestlove* is the main influence on the record, and he was on a mission to make it a classic. However when comparing it dispassionately with the Reverend's extensive back catalogue you have to say that, despite "Take Your Time", he doesn't quite achieve it. I urge you to overlook this opinion of mine however, and get this album. It's definitely a slow burner: subtle, smoky grooves and tasteful dynamic textures are the order of the day. All this is anchored and built around Green's engaging voice. That he is still this creative and vital in 2008 is impressive, and demands respect. It’s an atmospheric, sensual, and gritty collection of songs, that the current crop of soul pretenders could only dream of putting their names to.

Green has had something of a resurgence of late. He received the Lifetime Achievement Award at the 2008 BETs, in recognition of his contribution to soul, rhythm and blues, and pop music generally. “Lay It Down” went to number 9 in the US album charts, while to find his most recent single success you have to look all the way back to 1988. His duet with Annie Lennox, “Put A Little Love In Your Heart” was an international hit.

Al is currently in the opening phases of an extensive world tour. The European leg starts on the 24th of September in Barcelona. More importantly however, he will be giving a performance in Berns Salonger on the 8th of November 2008.

*Please note; ?uestlove..  is his pseudonym not a typing error. UL

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