The singer, songwriter, pianist, arranger, producer, and gospel choir leader releases his first album in over a decade on Basin Street Records.
My Gift to You is a tour de force that features new songs, creative arrangements of classic cover tunes, compelling singing, and the deep Louisiana piano work that Crawford has been known for since he was a child.
The album features a slew of special guests from all over the musical map including Big Freedia, Donald Harrison, Walter “Wolfman” Washington, Dr. John, Nicholas Payton, and Steve Riley.
The tunes reflect the many changes in the life of the musician since his last release thirteen years ago. Highlights include the opening self-referential song, “Creole Man” and the closing gospel-tinged “Ode to Louisiana.”
In between are covers of James Taylor’s “Fire and Rain” and Blind Faith’s “Can’t Find My Way Home.” A version of “Junko Partner” displays Crawford’s incredible talents as an arranger. The oft-covered song is imaginatively reworked to bring out the inherent hoodoo vibe in the song.
Davell Crawford plays tonight at Snug Harbor.
