Liverpool Sound and Vision Rating 9/10
To praise a person for their life lived should always be shown by not only what they achieved for themselves but what they have done for others, that their life was one of empathy, of pushing others to reach a potential they might have thought impossible and most importantly being humble where the result of their kindness is concerned.
One of the most considered and illustrious names in music, Dion, is a figure to whom the title of truth-seeker is perfectly credited, a dreamer of beauty in all things, a captivating soul to who art revolves with expectation and the gift of passion, and one to whom fellow Blues legend Eric Clapton described as, “He is the perfect example of how you can do what you love to do and still be available to the lives of others”.
Following on from the recent collaborations which only added an even greater depth and understanding to his commitment to the art of mutual expression and the voices of keen observation, Blues With Friends, Stomping Ground and the incredible Girl Friends, the new The Rock ‘N’ Roll Philosopher is an album of experience and insight that leaves the listener knowing they have been given access to the mind of one who is as unequalled as it can possibly be, but one whose humility shines like a beacon of inspiration in the same way for example that greets artists such as Cat Stevens/Yusef Islam, David Gilmour, Peter Frampton, and even Steve Hackett.
Music is more than theory, it is a teachable moment, one that is given credence and upmost attention in Dion’s new album, and for a person who is one of the great survivors of his era, this philosophy of expression is to be seen as a huge stride forward in belief and application.
Melding new tracks and standard with delicious re-recordings of old favourites and precious jewels, Dion, alongside such illuminating players as Sonny Landreth, Mark Knopfler, Eric Clapton, and of course Joe Bonamassa, the values of integrity are evident and from the opening of I’m Your Gangster Of Love and New York Minute, Dion’s sacred vision is heartfelt and fiercely cool, and with songs such as Take It Back, Cryin’ Shame, Dancing Girl, If You Wanna Rock And Roll, New York Is My Home, Abraham, Martin And John, and the finesse of grove that accompanies Runaround Sue, what is declared is a sound of Time, it is the occasion of a fulfilled soul in any era of popular music presenting grace and aura in abundance.
A powerful presence in music history has just become even more special, once more delving into a world of comprehensive momentum and humility driven perspective.
Dion releases The Rock ‘N’ Roll Philosopher on October 24th via KBTA Records.
Ian D. Hall