Glen Clark: You Tell Me

Review by Sheryl and Don Crow
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Texas-born piano man Glen Clark is one of the consummate storytellers of our generation.  He’s played with Willie, Kris, Bonnie Raitt, and, our favorite, his works with Delbert under the collective name of “Delbert And Glen.”  His songs have been recorded by legions of artists, and you can find his works in movies and TV, and on virtually all media platforms.  His move to L. A. led to the formation of The Glen Clark Band, and his first album in 25 years is entitled “You Tell Me.”  It is a continuation of the mix of blues, country, rock, gospel and soul that he has been bringing to fans over his entire musical life.

The party begins with a bad honky-tonker really layin’ it down, as our hero is, once again, “alone at the Motel 6,” as he ponders why “we keep making the same mistakes” in love, and the answer is, sadly, “You Tell Me and we’ll both know!”  “I Can Tell By Looking” is a soul-drenched ode to that one special lover, while, sometimes, “when you’ve given your best” with someone, finally you have to just “Walk On.”  Both these cuts evoke a strong Southern-rock vibe, with vocals that will bring to mind Gregg Allman.

We had two favorites, too.  Our hero is layin’ low for a lover who’s gonna need him one day, “When The Time Is Right!”  This one is stone funky thru and thru, and was co-written by Steve Cropper.  The set closes with an E Street Band-ish groove of a tale of a man who’s all but given up, but, “That’s Where You Come In, to save me with your love!”

Getting a chance to review a set from an artist the magnitude of Glen Clark has been an honor, a privilege, and, above all, a helluva lot of fun!  “You Tell Me” continues the gigantic legacy of this brilliant composer!  Until next time…Sheryl and Don Crow, The Nashville Blues And Roots Alliance.