The Robert Cray Band – Twenty
{2005 | Sanctuary Records Group}

Robert Cray – Guitars & Vocals
Jim Pugh – Keyboard
Kevin Hayes – Drums
Karl Sevareid – Bass
Don Smith – Tambourine on “That Ain’t Love”

Twenty has eleven new songs, five by Cray, three by Pugh and “I’m Walking” by Hayes. Twenty marks the seventeenth solo CD since Cray first entered the blues scene in Eugene, Oregon in 1978. Cray as a blues guitarist takes it slow with a strong jazz influence, as a vocalist, Cray is so incredibly soulful. “That Ain’t Love” is fine example of his guitar and vocal style, it kind of reminded one of “Strong Persuader” (an early Cray classic). “Fadin’ Away” is a treat for fans chomping at the bit for a Cray guitar solo. “I’m Walkin” kicks it up a notch compared to the other tracks. “I Forgot To Be Your Lover” is slow and in the groove. This CD is fairly pure and clean in sound, kinda mellow – call it Sunday afternoon blues.