If the photographic evidence accompanying The Knockdown Dragout (Gastonwood Music, February 9th, 2024) is any indication, then Chris J Norwood is a beaten man.
Beaten, maybe… But not out!
As Norwood sings on “The Knockdown Dragout” — the ensemble, album, and first single all share the same name — he is a fighter:
I know it don’t look good
They got me up against the ropes
I ain’t no lightweight kid
I got the fight, the will, the hope
The “will” and “hope” part comes in as the Dallas-based songwriter — and now bandleader, commanding a Stax-inspired ensemble cutting tracks live on the studio floor in the same building where Willie Nelson made Red Headed Stranger — leaves behind his acoustic guitar to make the album of his dreams. After listening to the celebratory songs on The Knockdown Dragout, Norwood’s “will” and “hope” win this bout by unanimous decision.
Today Glide is excited to premiere the title track which also happens to be the name of the band, the album, and a hell of an introduction for those looking for their next favorite modern soul act. This slow-churning tune features a full ensemble horn section, feisty guitar, and thick, funky organ playing to complement Norwood’s smoothly flowing vocals. The song, which feels both fresh and classic at the same time, also works as a sort of declaration for what Norwood and his band hope to accomplish as they put their music into the world.
“A ‘knockdown dragout’ is a phrase I used to hear my mother use. It’s essentially a fight between two people that is particularly bad. One where a lot of blood is drawn! This song is basically a metaphor for my career. The music business is a tough business and this song is me saying that no matter how many times I get knocked down I’m in it for the long haul.” — Chris J Norwood
LISTEN:
