Glenn Hughes has a long and distinguished career as a vocalist and bass guitarist for such seminal acts as Black Sabbath, Trapeze, and Deep Purple. He has been touring the world as a solo artist, and with other bands since 1977. Stevie Wonder once called Hughes "my favorite white singer in the world".
Soul Mover does nothing to detract from Hughes' track record. A mix of British rock, Detroit soul, and funk, the album is a welcome reminder of just how good Hughes can be. With special guests Chad Smith (Red Hot Chili Peppers), and guitarist Dave Navarro (Jane's Addiction), Soul Mover cranks up the volume to eleven and never loses the melody in the process.
The title cut shows Hughes in fine voice, and leaves no doubt that Chris Cornell (Soundgarden, Audioslave) was heavily influenced by Hughes. "High Road" has more of a Mike Patton (Faith No More) sound, while "Orion" has a funk groove that explores the Prince/Bobby Brown/Living Colour range of Hughes' voice.
"Let it Go" is old school melodic metal, and evokes the days when metal vocalists were actually required to be able to sing. "Miss Little Insane" is a great driving rock tune that compels you to roll down the windows, and turn up the bass.
Soul Mover is a throwback that will barely see the light of day on radio, but the satellite services will allow it to find its niche, and fans of the original heavy metal days will flock to it.
