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Carlos Johnson: In and Out

By Jim Santella
December 4, 2004
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Carlos Johnson's original "In and Out" speaks of relationships and the kind of personal issues that affect us on a daily basis. It gets in your bloodstream and stays with you everywhere you go. There's no way of forgetting about it, so he sings about how we feel. His passionate interpretation hits home, and you can't help being drawn into his circle. Our everyday life experiences make up the theme for his album of blues favorites and searing originals.

With a powerful electric guitar timbre to accompany his clear baritone voice, Johnson rings true throughout this highly recommended program of blues delights.

"Do Do Do" catches the traditional spirit of New Orleans in its celebration of shufflin' and storytellin'. You don't need caffeine, as Johnson lifts you up off your chair with his rhythmic action. "Delta Blues" lowers your high blood pressure with thoughts of the way things ought to be—in the peace and quiet of a country home far away from the hustle and bustle of urban life. His guitar amplifies the song's message with passionate shouts and soulful slides.

"Spirit" lets Johnson communicate with his guitar in an instrumental feature that says more than mere words could ever accomplish. Spiraling high and low, he mirrors his message soulfully with heartfelt passion.

"Key to the Highway" takes you back to the roots of blues and gospel. Tellin' what he's gonna do, Johnson captures our own thoughts. Parting can be difficult on your mind, but the promise of a welcome return soothes—especially when that promise is delivered in song. Emotional and intimate, Johnson gives his audience reason to keep on hoping for a better future.

Click here for audio clips of this record.

Track Listing

Blues Man; Leaving on the Next Train; Don't Ever Leave Me; It Ain't No Fun to Me; In & Out; Spirit; You Need a Man; Key to the Highway; Lisa; Do Do Do; Delta Blues.

Personnel

Carlos Johnson

Carlos Johnson- guitar, vocals; Roosevelt Purifoy- keyboard; Sam Green- bass; Linard Stroud- drums; Jesse Cross (Slim)- background vocals.

Album information

Title: In and Out | Year Released: 2004 | Record Label: Mr. Kelly's

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