Have Mercy EP

Album review

Paul Cauthen is no Johnny Cash. It’s easy to get mixed up, but this Texan minstrel is indeed one of our contemporaries, and here he is on stage, preaching the most entailing sermon ever heard! Although he is not a priest, Cauthen wishes to send out a message of peace, forgiveness and courage. What’s better for the ears than a good dose of Texan gospel! Have Mercy was produced and co-written with Beau Bedford and recorded in the Modern Electric studios in Dallas. For this divine word, Paul Cathen called upon a talented supporting cast: Bedford (guitar, keyboards, percussions), Nik Lee (guitar), Daniel Creamer (piano), McKenzie Smith (drums) and Scott Edgar Lee Jr. (bass). Needless to say, the minstrel minister’s deep voice can only mushroom in this sublimation. Everybody Walkin' This Land is one of these typically American songs, with the gospel sounds of choirs and rhythms evocative of slave chants. As for Texas, it is always present through the steel guitar. But Cauthen also embarks on more groovy trends like on Resignation and Have Mercy where the Hammond organ and the piano perfectly seize these prayers that make us want to clap our hands and sing endlessly! No matter the chosen theme, a continuity of images and ideas transpire from these texts, bringing joy and energy. With this album, Paul Cauthen will convert you! © Clara Bismuth/Qobuz