Jimmy Carpenter - Just Got Started (2024) [CD Rip]

Jimmy Carpenter is one of the “movers & shakers” of the contemporary blues and his new album Just Got Started on Gulf Coast Records just reaffirms that status. Filled with soul drenched blues, the recording is a reminder of his Grammy and Blues Music Award winning talents as a saxophone player and singer. There are a dozen tunes on the album of which 4 are originals and his choices for covers includes songs by King Curtis and Allen Toussaint! One of the originals is the title cut (Feels Like) I Just Got Started and it should get serious consideration as song of year for its delightful sentimental mesh of Jimmy’s voice, sax playing, and lyrics.

Just Getting Started is produced by Kid Anderson who is one of the “go to” producers on the contemporary blues scene. Kid appears on all the tracks along with Jim Pugh (Robert Cray, Chris Issac) on keyboards and Derrick “D’mar” Martin on drums and percussion. There are guest appearances by the incredible Jerry Jemmott (bass) on 9 of the songs, Bobby Vega (guitars/bass), Endre Tarczy (piano), Mike Galisatus (trumpet), Jack Sanford (baritone sax), Lisa “Little Baby” Anderson (backing vocals), and the Sons of the Soul Revivers [Dwayne, Walter, & James Morgan] (backing vocals).

There are three instrumentals on the recording that I loved. Two are great chill King Curtis songs and one is an original entitled “Jimmy Shimmy” that is one of my faves of 2024. Other songs I enjoyed on the album include “Working Man” (a Michael Bloomberg/Nick Gravenites song), “Shining Star” which was originally performed by the Manhattans and a fabulous cover of Willie Dixon’s “My Babe” that was first made famous by Little Walter.

In addition to being one of the stars of the contemporary blues, Jimmy also serves as Musical Director for one of the biggest events of the year, The Blues Bender held each September in Las Vegas. Several fellow members of the BMFR staff have attended and tell me that what makes it so enjoyable is not only the music but the ability to interact with the artists themselves before and after shows. Based on potential new Grammy and Blues Music Award nominations for the new album, I hope Jimmy leaves a headlining slot open for himself at the Blues Bender in 2025!!