Like a Fire (2008)

For his 2002 comeback LP, Don't Give Up on Me, Solomon Burke, the King of Rock and Soul employed the most royal of songwriting talents (Dylan, Costello, Waits) to create stunning showcases for his rich, chameleonic voice. Like a Fire, however, shuffles the deck with a few wild cards. Or maybe wild is the wrong word for Ben Harper, Eric Clapton, and Keb' Mo', who contribute mannered songs that match the relentlessly tasteful production. The best track is, naturally, the changeup: The Doris Day chestnut ''If I Give My Heart to You'' finds Burke in a torchy mode that calls for further exploration. B
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