Funk icons Tower of Power, known for taking left turns musically, have taken a bit of a detour and recorded a collection of classic soul tunes that they have entitled the "Great American Soulbook".  Included in their latest release are a dozen Soul Essentials, some utilizing original style arrangements, some with a TOP twist, but all with the distinctive Tower of Power sound. 

The CD consists of 9 songs produced by Emilio Castillo, Tower of Power's founder and leader since 1968.  Three additional songs were produced by multiple Grammy award recipient, George Duke. 

The CD explodes with the first track, "You Met Your Match", a Stevie Wonder song masterfully handled by Tower of Power's dynamic lead vocalist Larry Braggs. Track 2, Sam and Dave's "I Thank You", features Tom Jones and Larry in a  great rendition of a true soul classic that has stood the test of time with the Tower of Power Horns taking the song to a new level. Further into the CD Joss Stone joins the party offering up two fine vocal collaborations with Larry Braggs.  Joss appears on track 4, "It Takes Two", and track 10, "(Heaven Must Have Sent) Your Precious Love".  Sam Moore, who recently appeared at the Fillmore Auditorium with Tower of Power at their 40th Anniversary show, shines on track 7,  "Mr. Pitiful".  He brought down the house in San Francisco and his version of  "Mr. Pitiful" will bring a smile to the face of anyone who enjoys soul music. 

Huey Lewis has been a close friend and a huge fan of Tower of Power throughout his career.  On  "634-5789" Huey delivers a rock solid soulful performance in a duet with Larry Larry Braggs, familiar to Tower of Power fans worldwide, serves up incredible vocal performances on  "Loveland",  "Me and Mrs. Jones",  "Heaven Must Be Missing An Angel", and "Who Is He And What Is He To You".