Lee Fields & The Expressions- Faithful Man

Get out the oils and light the scented candles. Make sure the pilot light‰’s off. This is an old-school soul record, through and through. From the brassy mission statement “Faithful Man‰” to the languid send-off of “Walk On Through That Door,” this brand new album already sounds timeless.

Maybe it‰’s because Lee Fields has been in the game for decades, and his voice carries the weathered confidence of an assured veteran. Or maybe it‰’s because the label‰’s house band the Expressions is steeped in swinging R&B tradition, and the full-staffed horn and string sections add a layer of vintage color. Regardless, if your relationship with the rack has been soured by new releases full of reverb, synths, and lazy songwriting/uninspiring musical performances, this is the old flame that you need. -Jesse Paller
RIYL: Marvin Gaye, Luther Vandross, a little Anita
Recommended Tracks: All of them