Fenton Robinson

Special Road

Fenton Robinson was one of the unsung heroes of Chicago blues. With his subtle, probing guitar and soaring voice, he represented the smoother side of the city's blues sound. In fact, though he originally came from Mississippi, Fenton's style had more in common with the swinging Texas string-benders than his Delta contemporaries. His elaborate chord progressions on guitar recall the jazz-flavored work of his hero, T-Bone Walker, as well as B.B. King. His soulful vocals and unique songwriting style led the way for some to come. In this outing, Fenton's solos are firmly articulated and elaborately constructed/paced. He's got the guitar goods, and his vocals are memorable.