Street Date 02/28/12
From street singer in Barcelona to a major label release via the Concord Music Group, Clarence Milton Bekker's story is of the musical improbable.
There is a quote by Sonny Rollins and to paraphrase:
"There is nothing new in music, everything is a derivative of itself."
My riff on Sonny Rollins is to be a champion of those artists with the chops to make old school turn into new cool and Clarence Bekker is the real deal!
A former editor would often caution me about giving musical frames of reference however with an artist that is relatively new to the spotlight, the musical frame of reference is a necessary evil. Imagine the vocals of a Huey Lewis pulling from classic rhythm and blues. Make no mistake, Bekker is far from a "sound-alike" as Bekker's talent can run the vocal table from a flat out nasty retro-funk of the Staple Singers sound to doing his own thing on the iconic Sam and Dave "Hold On I'm Comin'." Producers Reggie McBride and Mark Johnson selected a special group of soul musicians with specific ties to the 1970's and early 80's period allowing Bekker to take a second look at some of the most powerful music of a generation that was originally crafted by such luminaries as Otis Redding and Sam and Dave.
The horn laden sound of "Any Other Way" sets the mood for a joyous romp of tunes that offer a little something for all tastes. The infectious funk of the Allen Toussaint number "Yes We Can" offers a positive message for a divisive world and allows Bekker's voice and impeccable timing to shine. The true musical test comes when jumping into the Otis Redding classic, "Try a Little Tenderness." Bekker nails the Otis Redding tune in one take! "Shine On Me" is the lone original on this release but is of such high quality that were it not for a good working knowledge of this material, telling the difference between some iconic standards and Bekker's own contribution would be a tough task. "Hold On, I'm Coming" is the aptly chosen closing tune for the release, subtly announcing that a new voice with an eye for the future but a firm foundation in the musical roots of the past is on the horizon.
The American Idol vibe of finding that "next great singer" can be argued to a degree. Idol is an immensely entertaining show that does indeed shine a spotlight on some talent that would otherwise go unnoticed. Bekker is an exciting and dynamic singer, the vocal diamond in the rough that a show like Idol is built around and built for. The musical question of does the best singer ever win begs to be answered, and the answer is no. There is no question in Clarence Bekker's talent, determination and drive. The only question here is how high will the industry allow Bekker to fly? Consistency has long been a trademark of the Concord Music Group and Clarence Bekker fits the label and fills the need for new blood and great entertainment. Old Soul is a musical celebration not to be missed!
This is a review and a release that should be shared with a friend. Word of mouth has made a business and made more than one successful artist. Do not let Clarence Bekker slip past you! If you do not have any friends then tell a stranger about this one, you will be friends for life.
A powerful voice with great phrasing and flawless delivery.
5 stars.
A You Tube Video.
For More Information:
