It became clear after the opening notes of the title cut (and first song), "You Put That Dog Ahead of Me," what Tommy Thomas has been telling me since we first met years ago: "Mayor, if the band ain't right and ready, Tommy Thomas won't be there."

Well this band is right and ready and Tommy is there on this piece of work. He wrote all of the songs with help from his astonishing band leader, guitarist and Hammond organist Roy Roberts (cuts #2 and #6) and Denver's own equivalent - Sammy Mayfield - on the last cut. The Working Man (as Tommy is known) is steady working here. The musicians fit the songs perfectly and provide a vehicle for Tommy's marvelously rich voice to drive them home. Classic vocalists like Bobby "Blue" Bland, O.V. Wright, James Carr and Little Milton Campbell come to mind as I listen to this CD. The arrangements are impeccable and the blend of horns, guitar, rhythm section and keyboards with Tommy's clear but perfectly gritty vocals are very powerful. This music will make all you dancers shake your booty and leave all you quasi singers trying to sing along while the rest of you music lovers are snapping your fingers and tapping your toes.

Tommy's contemporary - but classic sounding - songs are a joy to experience in today's world. Like the Rhythm& Blues of yesteryear his tunes can be universally understood by all people. There is a certain joy to this music that is hard to explain.

Folks, there is a special talent in our midst. Songs like "Craving for Your Love" and "Sweet Lady Love" are songs lovers could be dancing to for decades. Trying to pick a favorite is ludicrous - they are all winners, although the metaphorical, autobiographical "Cola" is a sensational bit of songwriting.

If you get a chance to see this man perform, you can be assured the show will be first class and will leave you with a knowing smile on your face. If you have ever been a fan of right Rhythm & Blues music, do yourself a favor and add this CD to your collection. You will find yourself playing it over and over again - like me.