Listening to Cold World, the latest release from Naomi Shelton and the Gospel Queens, is like jumping in a time machine and heading back to the golden age of soul music. In the last six years, since the band recorded the previous album, they have played some of the biggest music festivals around. From Bonnaroo to the Monterey Jazz festival, Monteral Pop to the Ottawa Blues festival, the constant performing and life on the road played a crucial role in the sound of this record.
Produced by Gabriel Roth, who is most well known for his work with Bosco Mann, Cold World is a varied look at soul and r ‘n’ b music of the ’60s. This can be attributed to the extensive age bracket of the band. From 17- 82 years old, the band is led by Brother Cliff Driver who has worked with everyone from Sam Cooke to Solomon Burke and Little Willie John.
There are many different flavours to discover on this disc and with such an experienced backing band, this album is sure to get you up and grooving. ‘Heaven is Mine’ and ‘Bound For The Promised Land’ are my favourite tracks, emulating the sound of The Staple Singers and Curtis Mayfield. The band is surely set to tour Australia in the next twelve months or so, and they are sure to bring the good summer time vibes along with them. Check out Cold World and get lost in their soulful grooves today.
Out now via Shock Records
By Tex Miller