Lucius Parr | We Got a Problem

By Sonny Boy Lee
Copyright © 1999-2004

Lucius Parr's third CD, We Got a Problem," is a 12-song collection of all original material, which is a rather unusual and very welcome departure from many contemporary blues albums. All of the songs were written by Lucius and his brother, Lamar. They handle all the vocals on the CD with ease, style and soul.

A fine blues guitarist in his own right, Lucius has found his own voice and doesn't make what might be the obvious attempt to mimic the style of his late cousin, Albert Collins. Only one track, "I Got Somebody Else," hints at Albert. It's a great shuffle with lots of guitar. Good job, Lucius!

Although the album bears Lucius' name, this is really an ensemble effort and Lucius makes sure everyone gets credit. On two tracks, "He Say, She Say" and "Let's Get Married," Richard Charles Cason of Malaca Records plays keyboards and adds his hip urban touch. James Tobin blows a fine sax solo on "You Ain't All That" and Jessie McGuire of Tower of Power takes a great trumpet ride on "Know Your Lover."

"You Ain't All That" is an up tempo, kick ass, in-yo'-face R&B song right out of the '60s. "Better Get Real" is a nice blues ballad, hinting at Ray Charles with very tasty guitar solos. "Heartbroken" is a great slow blues that kicks off with Lucius' guitar and has a nice harp solo in the middle. The title cut has a bass figure driving the song with horn interplay and guitar solos.

The album closes with a rousing and convincing gospel song, "Jesus Come Around Here."

This is one solid effort and well worth adding to your collection. Lucius leans upon many influences and uses them with taste and finesse.

Also check out his first album, Don't Yell at Me (1995) and Yoakum Texas Blues (1996).

Lucius Parr's third CD, We Got a Problem

CD review courtesy of

WE GOT A PROBLEM is available on CD from
LUCIUS PARR's web site at: http://www.blackdogweb.com/parr/