Praise & Blame

iTunes Review

In one of the most incredible, unforeseen twists in a career that is now approaching its sixth decade, Tom Jones has come out transformed as the gritty, bluesy, no-nonsense singer that he always had the potential to be. With a stripped-down approach, much like Johnny Cash’s American Recordings releases, Tom Jones shows us exactly why Van Morrison named Jones one of his favorite singers. Taking on the songs of Bob Dylan, John Lee Hooker and other classic blues numbers, Jones is a most convincing roadhouse singer, playing not to the bright lights of the arena but to the sweaty patrons at the bar. Dylan’s “What Good Am I?” remains a dark question. “Didn’t It Rain” turns into a joyous gospel shout. “If I Give My Soul” resounds as a slow, spiritual journey that could’ve been recorded years ago. “Nobody’s Fault But Mine” is the sound of a man recounting his life as he nears its completion (Jones just turned 70). One hopes this is just the beginning of a new phase in Jones’ amazing career.