Little Milton
Think of Me
Telarc CD-83618
After nearly two decades with Malaco, Little Milton Campbell's Telarc
debut truly proves why he is a revered American musician. When I read, "this record
is Little Milton at his righteous best", in Art Tipaldi's liner notes, I thought it
was record label propaganda. But I was wrong. Ike Turner introduced Milton to Sam Phillips
in the early '50s, but Phillips was busy forming Elvis Presley. So, Milton moved to East
St. Louis where his recording career flourished on Bobbin Records. Before he knew it,
Chess Records signed him to their Checkers subsidiary. There, he registered hits from 1962
through 1971. Until 1975, he was a staple at Stax. From '75 to '84, he was with one
fledging label after another.
Little Milton Campbell possesses one of the last authentic soul/blues
voices. On all 12 original tracks, his thick voice is the main attraction. Each song was
written by Milton and has its own personality. Co-producer Jon Tiven co-wrote 11 of the
songs. "Gonna Find Me Somebody To Love" features Milton's absolutely commanding
voice. It orders you to pay attention and give respect, while Jon Tiven modestly provides
harmonica fills. With ultra-innovative rhythm, "Let Your Love Rain Down On Me"
is contemporary and reflects deep spirituality. Soothing background vocals are provided by
Scat Springs. "The Blues Is My Companion" is a deep blues song that displays
Milton's signature single-string guitar and Bruce Katz's pensive organ. Unlike the
previous hit "The Blues Is Alright", this is not a sing-along, anthem-like song.
Rather, it defines friendships as demonstrated between Milton, the blues and his guitar.
Jon Tiven's fresh production, fantastic guitar tone and admirable percussion control
"Something Wonderful" as much as Milton's honeyed voice. With lyrics spoken as
loving as a favorite aunt or uncle, the title track is sensitive. The soul-injecting vocal
delivery of "Gone With The Wind" naturally meshes with vein-grooving rhythm.
By looking closely in the country's backyard, Jon Tiven has located a
national treasure. Now, it is finally time for all of the world, to experience what the
southern U.S. chittlin' circuit has known for years. 70-year-old Little Milton is an
endangered species. He is an American Idol who has recorded the soul/blues CD of the year,
guaranteed.
- Tim Holek -
Southwest Blues CD Review - July 2005
Current Reviews - 2005 Reviews - available at our store
