Very rarely does a band come along that can basically rewrite classic R&B songs and make them sound fresh, or write modern songs that could easily have been pulled from a 50's era juke box. An astonishing feat indeed and it seems so easy for Bill King and his band, 'Saturday Nite Fish Fry'. Their new release "Rhythm & Soul" (7 Arts) has a timeless quality and a very eclectic mix of great music.
Featuring piano and vocals from the gifted Mr. King and unbelievable vocals from Shakura S'Aida, each song is a treat. The first track 'Ain't I talkin' To You Baby" is a fine indication of how well this band works together. The sexy 'That's How I Feel About You' has smooth, toned down vocals from Ms. S'Aida and a wonderful brass arrangement, featuring Chris Gale, Bob Brough and John Johnson on sax and trumpet from William Sperandi. 'Something On My Mind' is an original written and sung by Bill King. With a great bass and drum lines from Davide DiRenzo (drums) and Scott Alexander (bass) and guitar with a southern electric slide feel from Neil Chapman, this rockin' tune easily becomes a favourite. The Blues are evident on 'Easy, Easy. Easy'. With an adopted Barrelhouse sound courtesy of the piano and the soulful lyrics provided by Shakura, this tune is somewhat over shadowed by the rock guitar licks.

All of the tracks on this disc are great. The real gem, however is a cover of Big Maybelle Smith's 'Maybelle's Blues'. It is over seven minutes of raw Blues vocals at its best. I have seen Ms. S'Aida perform this song live, and the recording does not do any justice, but this is a killer track. The lyrics are sexy and very cheeky, and the innuendos are obvious, which is part of the fun. Some of the other tracks on this disc include a modernized version of 'John The Revelator', Elmore James' 'I Can't Stop Lovin''Big Bill Broonzy's 'I Can't Be Satisfied' and a fantastic track written by Bill King called 'I'll Miss Your Smile'.

Radio friendly and irresistible, this collection of songs is impeccable. With the help of the personnel, each track on "Rhythm & Soul" restores the original good time feelings and meaning of g R&B, whilst providing a fresh sound and arrangement. A fine effort from "Saturday Nite Fish Fry" that will soon be a favourite in many music collections. For more information, visit www.7artsmusic.com.