When people think of Robert Randolph, most think of the awesome pedal steel musician who frequently jams with Dave Matthews. Having had the pleasure of seeing Robert Randolph’s over-the-top pedal steel performance with Dave Matthews Band on PBS last year, the prospect of a good studio album seemed improbable.
According to Warner Brothers Records, Randolph said, “I was always caught up in the show, because I’m comfortable as a performer. … But Carlos Santana said to me, if you ask fifty people which they remember most, a show or a record, 48 of them will say a great record.” This idea set up the framework for his second studio album, Colorblind.
Robert Randolph & The Family Band’s new CD, Colorblind, is a gritty roller coaster ride into the depths of rockdom.
The CD features the kind of let-loose vocals and guitar riffs that can make the soul soar. Eric Clapton’s appearance on a cover of “Jesus is Just Alright with Me” showcases Randolph’s mutual respect with one of the most influential recording artists in the 20th century. Not a bad person to have on a sophomore album.
Randolph proves to be a musical triathlete on Colorblind by performing the pedal steel, guitars and vocals with such rigor. “Love Is the Only Way,” featuring Dave Matthews, Leroi Moore and Rashawn Ross is a Stevie Wonder-esque global change anthem. The driving beats and horn section in this song are reminiscent of those in the Wonder’s “Sir Duke.”
Ballads on Colorblind are R&B mixed with a country feel. “Stronger,” featuring Leela James and astonishingly honest vocals from Robert Randolph, fits perfectly on the album. The sultriest rhythm on the album is in the song “Angels.”
Often the driving, up-tempo songs are viewed as stronger than the ballads on a sophomore album like Colorblind. However, the ballads and the gospel-themed selection, “Blessed,” is not to be ignored. This song is suggestive of some songs off Janet Jackson’s CD Janet.
Randolph has a lot of insight to offer the contemporary music scene; he is unafraid to learn from the greats and build from their expertise. He may not be “bringing sexy back,” but he is bringing quality back.