Have guitar...

Press, 7 May 1987, Page 14

Have guitar...

ROBERT CRAY BAND “Strong Persuader” (Hightone 830 568-1). Although a fan of blues music, I have not heard Robert Cray before. But, that is going to end. “Strong Persuader” is making an offer that cannot be refused — listen to the rest of Cray’s recordings. Although Cray is classed as a blues guitarist, “Strong Persuader” actually swings closer to the George Benson mould as his guitar has a lilting quality. That is except for the extremely hot R. and B. opening track, “Smok-

ing Gun,” that is a killer. Four minutes and five seconds is enough to make one search out for what has been missed in earlier years. Cray has not paid his dues in the accepted sense of bluesicians. He hasn’t picked. cotton and his name isn’t long forgotten. Still, the man grew up on soul, and it is the mixture of styles on the remainder of the latest LP that is so interesting. There are some interesting tales. “Right Next Door (Because Of Me),” the cause of a col-

lapsing relationship listens next door while the couple fight, is a good example. But sometimes Cray over-reaches himself — “Still Around,” although a true life story, fails dismally as a song. There is a neat touch from the Memphis Horns as Cray and his band can show that they can cook as on "Smoking Gun.” But the guitar licks also convince me that Cray can coast. Noticed some cheap Cray material going in a demolition sale. Guess who is first in. line. —NEVIN TOPP.