Guitarist
Eric Essix gives his listeners a strong dose of smooth Southern hospitality on this excellent release for Zebra Records.
Southbound features 11 great tracks inspired by
Essix's southern influences, including a great cover of Glen Campbell's "Wichita Lineman" and one of
Brook Benton's biggest hits, "A Rainy Night in Georgia." The guitarist wrote five original songs that are realized with the accompaniment of bassist
Sean Michael Ray,
Lil' John Roberts on drums, and
Kelvin Wooten on Wurlitzer electric piano, Hammond B3 organ, Fender Rhodes, and acoustic piano. Guest appearances by
Melvin Butler on saxophones and flutes and Darrell Tibbs on percussion round out the core quartet. One of the most inspirational points on the CD is provided by Minister Valerie Harris and the GLC Praise Team on "People Get Ready." The choir does a stirring gospel version of this song that would have made
Curtis Mayfield proud. "Camellia" provides the beautification imagery on the CD and
Eric Essix has a great solo to go along with it. Together the group has a lot to say about their homeland and there's plenty to hear. From the R&B, gospel, blues, funk, and southern rock sound reminiscent of the Allman Brothers,
Essix and his great guitar capture the natural essence of a "southern groove" master. Great CD.