Don't Miss

BJ Wilbanks Brings Back Smooth Southern Music With New LP Release

By Kath Galasso on April 24, 2017

wilbanks

BJ Wilbanks music fills an empty place

Sometimes you just don’t know how much you’ve missed something until you have the chance to experience it all over again. Old time r&b is a case in point.You know what I mean, ‘60s, ‘70s r&b, the kind with lush horns and vocals smooth as honey. Due out this week is a new album from Georgia-based BJ Wilbanks. The album oozes that sweet and mellow r&b sound while blending it with a little blues, a little Motown, a tad of country and a whole lot of heart & soul.

The self-titled album from Wilbanks effortlessly wanders from the soothing sermons of Rev. Al Green on songs like “Healin’ My Blues” to the little more funky “Change Your Mind” to the no-mistaking-that-southern-influence of “Livin’ Off The Land.” His vocals fall somewhere between true r&b and gospel, and deliver just the right feeling and mood.

“I Can’t Help It”

The first of two songs released for preview ahead of the April 28^th release date. Like a full-bodied wine, “I Can’t Help It” is meant to be savored from the first sip. Wilbanks sound has been called ‘Back Porch Soul,’ a term that is both accurate and enticing. It’s not hard to picture Wilbanks and company playing theses songs while sitting on a tattered sofa as the warm breezes throw up dust and dandelions. “I Can’t Help It” is a song of longing but not desperation. It’s nicely produced with background vocals and the perfect balance of horns surrounding Wilbanks understated pleading.

“Livin’ Off The Land”

The second song released for preview is a little more country/southern rock oriented. A wish to rewind life to a simpler time. It’s a tune that is easy to like, as is the whole album. The music is generally laid-back and well put together. Wilbanks brings a retro feel to the music but it’s fresh and at times, it’s effortless.

The album drops April 28^th, if you want music that is soulful, sweet, and not over-processed, check it out.

BJ Wilbanks website

Post by Kath Galasso @KatsTheory

Track Listing: