Nappy Brown is a survivor, an R&B pioneer from the mid-'50s who had hit records for Savoy before drifting away into obscurity after 1962. He made a short-lived comeback in the '80s and then was off records again for many years before recording
Long Time Coming in May of 2007.
Nappy Brown is still in prime voice throughout this spirited set. In addition to a variety of blues (including an acoustic "Cherry Red"), blues ballads, and some vintage R&B, he is quite effective singing soul (which he predated) on "Give Me Your Love" and a gospel piece, "Take Care of Me." With the fiery playing of guitarist
Sean Costello egging him on along with the drive of the other sidemen,
Nappy Brown is heard throughout at the top of his game. He certainly does not sound 78. ~ Scott Yanow