Mike Farris- Shine For All the People (ALBUM REVIEW)

[rating=8.00]

Nashville soul singer, Mike Farris has a multi-faceted musical career starting as a front man for a 90’s rock band, Screaming Cheetah Wheelies but over the last decade his career as a soul singer has what has brought him legions of fans, music awards, and critical acclaim.  Farris live performances at Bonnaroo, SxSW Festival, and Hardly Strictly Bluegrass Festival greatly increased his popularity.  Farris won the 2008 Americana Music Associations Emerging Artist of the Year, Dove award in 2010, and most recently a 2015 Grammy nomination for “Best Roots Gospel Album” for his new album, Shine For All the People.  Mike Farris has a vivid story to tell and many people that are ready to listen.  His honest and genuine songs of redemption, struggles with addiction, pain, and Gospel awakening resonate with listeners from every demographic and age group.

Shine For All the People is a joyful rhythm and blues record filled with Farris’ hope drenched lyrics alongside powerful backup singers and a New Orleans style horn section.  The first track, “River Jordan” is a Caribbean influenced number with blistering tempo and  horns that builds into an epic crescendo. “Jonah and the Whale” is a Meters style funk number with organ and slinky guitar leads.  Farris vocals are captivating on every track because of his belief and struggle in what he is singing and the sheer power in his voice is breathtaking.  Farris’ treatment to two familiar tunes, “Sparrow and This Little Light” breathes new life into traditional songs but puts a passionate upgrade on them making them some of the highlights of the album.  One of the few originals on the album, John Fogerty style rocker, “One Fine Day” is inspired by the birth of his son, Christian Blue Sky Farris (now in his 20s).   One of the stronger tracks is New Orleans boogie number “The Lord Will Make a Way Somehow” laced with Dr. John style keys and gospel choir gang vocals it will be sure to get your feet moving.  Bluesy “Power of Love” adds some nice guitar grooves and gives Farris room to flex those powerful pipes.