Teresa James & The Rhythm Tramps The Bottom Line (CD)

(Blue Heart) 13 tracks, digipack.

Teresa James' lusty combination of gritty blues, roots rock, gospel, dark folk and southern soul is best described as being inspired by Delbert McClinton. McClinton made his career writing and singing powerful songs that drew liberally from these genres, and while it would be unfair to call keyboardist/vocalist James "the female Delbert," the similarity in style between the two musicians is undeniable, right down to their powerful vocals. Perhaps it's no coincidence that James also participated in some of Delbert's famous cruises, where she probably picked up tips from the master. Whatever the case, this is a solid, often compelling album of generally upbeat, Americana-inspired soul-blues with plenty of sassy attitude from James and great support from her journeyman band. A two-piece horn section is featured on all tracks, adding an extra soul tinge. James' voice is influenced by Bonnie Bramlett, and indeed this album can be seen as an updated version of Delaney & Bonnie at that group's peak in the early '70s. Credit is due to veteran bassist/guitarist Terry Wilson, who wrote or co-wrote all the songs except for the closing cover of Steve Bruton's "I Do My Drinkin' on the Weekend" (Bruton has contributed a track to almost every James album). These songs have smart lyrics that fit James' often sexy/nasty mama persona ("Put the Squeeze on Me," "I Know Handsome When I See It") and his gruff, seductive voice. Comparisons to Marcia Ball, Susan Tedeschi and Bonnie Raitt are also appropriate, but James imbues this sound with her own personality. On "Eieio," the party goes New Orleans, with slick second-line funk that's not far removed from Little Feat, thanks largely to James' Bill Payne-style piano playing. Guest Terry Ball blows haunting harp sounds into the catty groove of the title track, a churchy, slow swamp sizzler that combines being laid off from a job with more personal matters. The playing is tight, the melodies are tough, and James sounds loose and enthusiastic. The result is one of their best albums and certainly a disc that all Delbert McClinton fans will enjoy.