Say Yes

Album review

Part of the Sacred Steel movement, the Lee Boys (most of whom are related) put pedal steel at the front of their gospel. But unlike contemporaries like the Campbell Brothers, there's a slight and unusual country tinge to their blues-y gospel sound, making them sound, at times, a little like the Allman Brothers circa 1973-74, as they show on "Walk With Me." They're all fiery players, but it's Emanuel Roosevelt Collier, the pedal steel man, who's the standout, with a seemingly endless bag of tricks and licks, although he can lay back and let the melody work, too, as he does on "Amazing Grace." While he takes the spotlight, everyone contributes, from guitarist Alvin Lee (not to be confused with the bloke from Ten Years After), and singers Keith and Derrick Lee, who each bring different qualities to the music. The rhythm section is rock-steady, but the band rocks the house like no one's business. A fabulous record from a band that's going to be heard more and more.
© Chris Nickson /TiVo