Anthony Hamilton
Ain’t Nobody Worryin’
(Arista)
The Carolina-born, New York-based Hamilton carves out unique territory, by shunning hip-hop devices, not trying to sound like Stevie Wonder and keeping his shirt on. Gospel is in his blood and colours his themes and harmonies. “The Truth” and “Preacher’s Daughter” put the passion back in compassion, as Hamilton shows how earthy godliness can be. “Pass Me Over” brings the spiritual section to a glorious climax. Before long, he’s back wooing “Sista Big Bones” with the lusty swagger of a young Sly Stone. His voice is so warm and hearty, and the songs so well-suited, it dominates any notions that would put him in a cubbyhole. Classic, but not retro.
—Doug Taylor
This article appears in Dec 6-12, 2007.