Shades

I am a huge DB2 fan but reviews should be as non biased as possible and written with the fan blinders off. With that said fans looking for a release in the style of DB2s Jelly Cream, Welcome and his Arc Angels work will most likely will be disappointed with Shades. Pop/R & B fans and fans of his last release Rich Man may be more approving. (IMHO) Shades feels flat and half realized and is nowhere near indicative of DB2s many talents. There is very little of his standout guitar playing and a heavy emphasis on the vocals. It has it's moments (reason for a generous 2 star review) but the moments are not sustained and flee quickly. It's somewhat reminiscent of the first half of Rich Man, which i feel was a better and more fully realized album. But music is subjective and up the ear of the listener so i urge you to listen to the sound bites before you lay your money down (something i should have done a better job of myself). DB2 is a unique and extremely gifted talent and just because Shades missed the mark for me doesn't mean you won't like it. Within his catalog of music he truly has something for everyone. This may be the one for you. Hope that helps.

I have thoroughly enjoyed previous DBII albums all the way back to Arc Angels. This one is obviously a new direction, but it fails to rock. Certainly an artist has the right to grow, change and explore new sounds. Unfortunately, I just don't find Shades to be a very entertaining.

This latest solo venture for Doyle is beyond outstanding. His guitar work is amazing, and the songs are perfect. Enjoy collaborations with some of the greats, including Eric Clapton and Norah Jones. I can't say enough good things about this CD.

Live this music. And the special guest appearances are surprising and just Wow!

Doyle is finding his stride and laying it down with tone and verse. His latest I hope will be a long line of future out of the park music. He is swinging for the fence.

Doyle delivers yet another stellar work, showcasing his lyricism/songwriting skills while delivering his message in the best soulful kind of way...outstanding!

Great guitar work

if you haven't listened to Doyle Bramhall II you are missing a unique and persuasive voice in the music scene.