Tutu Jones
Inside Out
SoulTone Records
Tutu Jones, born in 1966, grew up in South Dallas surrounded by music and musicians. Saying music is his life is an understatement. Tutu’s natural talent and energy took him out on the road with bands as a drummer. Just as he came of age as a recording artist in the early nineties, the bottom fell out of the recording industry as we know it. That is why Inside Out, which is his newest CD and 5th album, is truly a remarkable accomplishment.
Written and produced by Tutu, this set of nine songs strikes a chord of self-confidence and maturity not heard before in his work. “I Can Write a Book About You” may be a tribute to his wife, who has stuck by him solidly. Tutu is all about family, which keeps him grounded. Tutu often tours Europe, where his stellar musicianship commands respect from his fans. That is what it takes to make it in this business – when your work is playing soulful blues with a Texas kick.
Tutu’s voice on Inside Out is strong and modulated. If you close your eyes on “Diggin’ on You” and “I’m So Proud,” a lot of Memphis soul seeps in, courtesy of the Memphis Horns tracks, which were added by Tutu as producer of this album. But the primary soulfulness comes right out of Tutu – from deep down inside, a very personal voice. Tutu allows himself to be somewhat vulnerable on certain songs, which is refreshing.
On “Weekend Driver” and “Six Pack,” Tutu the bluesman stands out as the driving force. Inside Out does not disappoint blues fans. An effective blues song needs to be played with this kind of verve and nerve, the type Tutu commands from his guitar when he sings “I Feel Good This Morning”. This CD will liven up the drive to work and the drive home, too.
Tutu exhibits a new-found self-discipline in all areas of his many talents on Inside Out. It is said that a bluesman is just beginning to get into his prime when he hits middle age, whatever that age is these days. Tutu has hit his stride and a sense of balance on this CD, which are hard-earned and well-deserved. Support our local artists, and buy this one for sure!
- Myra Walker -
Southwest Blues CD Review - February 2010
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