Earl Gaines - Everything'S Gonna Be Alright (1998)

Somewhat of a protégé of the great Big Joe Turner, Earl Gaines was an important force in the development of the Nashville branch of Excello records, not just as a performer but also as an arranger and session leader. Emerging from retirement, he struts his stuff on Everything's Gonna Be Alright. As an artist, Gaines is a warm, very personable singer with a voice sometimes reminiscent of Arthur Alexander. Earl mixes such playful numbers as "Two Lovers Are Better Than One" with more sedate pieces like "Sittin' Here Drinkin'." The latter selection contains a sultry tenor solo by Dennis Taylor (of the Third Coast Horns), and all of the sides include tasteful guitar work by session producer Fred James. Special mention should go to Phil Rugh, who contributes some real smooth Hammond organ on "Brandi and Champagne." It's good to have Gaines back.