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I’m JusVon
JusVon
Parliament Records
Parlirec@aol.com
Purchase at - www.cdbaby.com/jusvon
16 tracks/72:39


This is the first recording by a native of Watts and a drummer by trade. JusVon started playing at three, in the studio at fourteen with Taj Mahal and has played or toured with some giants in the R&B field like the late ZZ Hill, Tyrone Davis, Percy Sledge, Otis Clay and Buddy Ace, who was JusVon’s mentor.

The disc cover states - Neo Ballads - Neo Blues - Neo Soul. The sixteen tracks were cut in numerous studios, a fact that can often lead to an uneven sound quality. The musicians are not credited in the disc notes. Perhaps there were too many to list. Some musical parts were generated by machine rather than humans, an approach that I have never cared much for. Not a promising start!

But what JusVon delivers is a disc full of his strong lead vocals on a variety of tunes that prove he is a talent to be reckoned with. He is in command no matter what the setting. The disc opens to the sound of a ringing phone and a sexy voice, asking for the "Fix It Man", and JusVon describes the services he can provide.  He  gets down on "Just Your Fool" a funky, horn-driven number. JusVon demonstrates his vocal range with his pleas to his lady during "Driveway Blues". Rachel Sanders joins JusVon for a raucous duet on the Jimmy McCracklin classic tune "Think". On "Thank You (for the Angel in my Life), JusVon combines his gospel roots with some hip-hop for a contemporary soul sound.

The highlights of the disc are the three soul ballads where JusVon delivers outstanding interpretations. On "I Don’t Understand Me" he pleads for understanding from his partner, displaying an impressive vocal range. Even better is his rendition of "Something For You", a tune with a strong blues influence and a performance that is spell-binding in it’s intensity. "What Changed Your Mind" is further proof that JusVon learned his lessons well from his distinguished former employers.

I’m JusVon  is a debut that the singer can be proud of. It is a coming-out party that deserves a listen from anyone who enjoys soul with a dose of the blues. Despite having to work in different studios with different musicians, JusVon has created a varied recording that showcases his impressive talents. I hope we get to hear more form him real soon.

Note - Several months ago, JusVon was seriously injured in a car accident. His daughter-in-law was killed. Please keep him and his family in your thoughts and prayers.

Reviewed by Mark Thompson - kahunablues@aol.com