With the latest blues revival just about at its peak, Robert Cray has chosen an interesting moment to diversify. I Was Warned is a foray into Stax-style soul, complete with sweeping Booker T. & the MG's organ and charts by the Memphis Horns. What's more, though Cray is one of the finest straight-ahead guitarists in the field, he has chosen to focus on vocals. There's still guitar aplenty, but Cray showcases a sly croon somewhere between Sam Moore (of Sam and Dave) and Johnnie Taylor. And that's no faint praise. B+


Add your comment
The rules: Keep it clean, and stay on the subject or we might delete your comment. If you see inappropriate language, e-mail us. An asterisk * indicates a required field.