On Oct.5, 2018 Provogue Records will release Shades, singer-songwriter and guitarist Doyle Bramhall II’s debut for the label. Shades is a spellbinding blend of grungy blues, raucous garage rock, transcendent psychedelia, and soothing, soul-stirring ballads that sees Bramhall reaching new heights as a multi-instrumentalist (he plays guitars, bass, drums and keyboards), producer and vocalist while responding to his heart’s most urgent commands as an arranger and lyricist. What is it about Doyle Bramhall II, and why does everybody want to work with him? Shades features a host of friends and luminaries who have all, in one way or another, played significant roles in Bramhall’s musical story: Eric Clapton, Norah Jones, the Tedeshi Trucks band, and Austin buds the Greyhounds. Since 2000, the uniquely gifted guitarist, singer, songwriter and producer has been practically joined to Eric Clapton’s hip as both an onstage and studio collaborator. Clapton makes a notable appearance on the album, providing blistering back-and-forth guitar work with Bramhall on the quaking R&B-tinged “Everything You Need”. Bramhall and pianist-singer Norah Jones have been making music together for years, and the two form a heavenly alliance on the elegant ballad “Searching for Love.” Shades concludes with a reverent reading of Bob Dylan’s classic “Going, Going, Gone,” a gem from the singer's 1974 album, Planet Waves. Bramhall had recently performed the song with the Tedeschi Trucks Band at a Gregg Allman tribute concert last year, and he felt that a reunion with the group would make a powerful coda on his record.
U**Y
Listen for yourself.
I am a huge DB2 fan but reviews should be as non biased as possible and written with the fan blinders off. With that said fans looking for a release in the style of DB2s Jelly Cream, Welcome and his Arc Angels work will most likely will be disappointed with Shades. Pop/R & B fans and fans of his last release Rich Man may be more approving. (IMHO) Shades feels flat and half realized and is nowhere near indicative of DB2s many talents. There is very little of his standout guitar playing and a heavy emphasis on the vocals. It has it's moments (reason for a generous 2 star review) but the moments are not sustained and flee quickly. It's somewhat reminiscent of the first half of Rich Man, which i feel was a better and more fully realized album. But music is subjective and up the ear of the listener so i urge you to listen to the sound bites before you lay your money down (something i should have done a better job of myself). DB2 is a unique and extremely gifted talent and just because Shades missed the mark for me doesn't mean you won't like it. Within his catalog of music he truly has something for everyone. This may be the one for you. Hope that helps.
M**G
What happened?
I have thoroughly enjoyed previous DBII albums all the way back to Arc Angels. This one is obviously a new direction, but it fails to rock. Certainly an artist has the right to grow, change and explore new sounds. Unfortunately, I just don't find Shades to be a very entertaining.
S**E
Doyle Bramhall II Is The Best
This latest solo venture for Doyle is beyond outstanding. His guitar work is amazing, and the songs are perfect. Enjoy collaborations with some of the greats, including Eric Clapton and Norah Jones. I can't say enough good things about this CD.
D**N
Great Album
Live this music. And the special guest appearances are surprising and just Wow!
J**S
Are you kidding me????? WOW
Doyle is finding his stride and laying it down with tone and verse. His latest I hope will be a long line of future out of the park music. He is swinging for the fence.
J**R
Must Hear
Doyle delivers yet another stellar work, showcasing his lyricism/songwriting skills while delivering his message in the best soulful kind of way...outstanding!
D**T
Guitar slinger
Great guitar work
D**R
great music
if you haven't listened to Doyle Bramhall II you are missing a unique and persuasive voice in the music scene.
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