Johnny Adams - From the Heart

From 1984, this is probably Adams’ finest work. His versatility and range is matched by very strong material, notably Doc Pomus’ tender “From the Heart” (in which Adams adds impact by holding his notes longer than expected). Hal Jackson’s ripping “I Feel Like Breaking Up Somebody’s Home.” Alvin “Red” Tyler’s tenor sax break on “If I Ever Had a Good Thing” is spine-tingling. The whole band is top-flight: Walter “Wolfman” Washington’s electric guitar is particularly satisfying on “Your Love is So Doggone Good,” but once again, it’s Adams’ voice and Pomus’ songwriting that carries the day. Throughout, Adams is expert in working the space between blues and soul.