SPILL ALBUM REVIEW: ROBERT FINLEY – HALLELUJAH! DON’T LET THE DEVIL FOOL YA

ROBERT FINLEY
HALLELUJAH! DON’T LET THE DEVIL FOOL YA
EASY EYE SOUND

The combination of soul/blues singer Robert Finley and guitarist Dan Auerbach has already resulted in some acclaimed LPs for Auerbach’s Easy Eye Sound label. We, as audience members, have been given a covers LP, as well as LPs of original tracks from both of these artists. However, both men go right back to their roots for this set. This includes Auerbach recalling listening to his father’s The Soul Stirrers records, and Finley telling stories of his own experiences singing gospel music in church. Finley has always included a gospel track on previous releases. However, on this release, he seems to be leaning heavily into the subject matter.

This release is not a gospel LP per se, though, despite the sleeve photo and title. In its truest sense, it’s Finley’s own testimony, and he keeps his own style intact. This is so lovers of soul music can appreciate the sounds as well and not feel left out. Finley’s daughter, Christy Johnson, adds a female vocal counterpoint, while the musicians supply a dense, funky, modern, bluesy, and soulful accompaniment, and Finley testifies right out front. This LP truly makes you want to ask someone to give you an amen.

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