51 Phantom

Without forsaking the bluesy base of their well-received debut, the North Mississippi Allstars soar creatively on this ambitious follow-up. Original material and a spiritual dimension distinguish the song selection, with highlights that range from the gospel call-and-response of "Ship" to the down-and-dirty "Mud," from the psychedelic squall of "Sugartown" to a harmony-laden revival of the Staple Singers' "Freedom Highway." Producer Jim Dickinson gives the music plenty of room to breathe, while his two sons--guitarist Luther and drummer Cody--refine their soul-satisfying interplay with bassist Chris Chew. As the trio continues to emphasize groove and feel over power virtuosity, their musical progression parallels that made early in their careers by the Rolling Stones, Allman Brothers, and ZZ Top--an indication that these young Allstars have just begun to stretch their wings. --Don McLeese