And then there was Tito.
The Jackson Five (Michael, Marlon, Jermaine, Jackie, and Tito) was one of the most successful and famous groups in music history and was the starting point for Michael Jackson. In many ways, Tito was the forgotten Jackson, both then and now. He has now returned at the age of 67 with a new solo album titled Under Your Spell.
Under Your Spell arrived in my mailbox with little fanfare. I wasn’t sure what to expect, but Tito has crafted a well-produced and very listenable album of blues, soul, with jazz undercurrents running throughout.
He has several guest artists on board, and when you are a Jackson, musicians such as George Benson, Joe Bonamassa, Eddie Lavert, Bobby Rush, Stevie Wonder, and brother Marlon are at your beck and call.
“Love On Another” sets the tempo for the album. It is a positive song that runs counter to the world events of today. Tito, along with Bobby Rush, Marlon, and Stevie Wonder on harmonica, layers in the melodies on an upbeat and smooth performance that sets a toe-tapping groove.
Songwriters Kenny Gamble and Leon Huff plumb their Philadelphia roots for “All In The Family Blues.” It is a brass-laden and funky piece and Eddie Lavert’s adds his soulful vocals to the mix.
“Under Your Spell” with guitarist Joe Bonamassa, “Big Leg Woman,” and “You’re Gonna Push Me Too Far” are all modern blues pieces.
“Rock Me Baby” is a cover and tribute to B.B. King. Tito demonstrates his guitar chops and shares vocals with King’s daughter Claudette. It is a modernized version of the 1964 classic.
Tito Jackson, as a singer, guitarist, songwriter, and producer, has resurrected his career with a fine album of blues, proving there is at least one Jackson still producing good music.
