A resonating debut full-length from Sonny Gullage, Go Be Free embraces an affecting mixture of bluesy rock, emotive soul, and soulful R&B. The New Orleans-based artist penned his first song as a 12-year-old, about the BP oil spill, and has continued to show a penchant for timely, memorable songwriting since then — now culminating in this standout debut, as a 25-year-old. Featuring production from four-time Grammy winner Tom Hambridge, Go Be Free impresses with its riveting sound.
“Just Kiss Me, Baby” opens the album with a charismatic charm — infusing playful keys, rollicking organs, and tender guitar twangs as Gullage admits “it’s good to feel you next to me.” The beckoning “come on over here,” line escalates into the title-touting invigoration, bolstered further by blues guitar swipes and blaring organ punches. Gullage’s dynamic vocal chops are especially on display after the two-minute turn, with the “when you woo me,” line excelling into punctuating guitar goodness.
The subsequent title track moves with a more climactic momentum, culminating in an immersive “go be free!” exultation with shades of blues and gospel exuberance. The choir-like responsive vocals complement Gullage’s fantastic lead, kickstarting Go Be Free with a strong one-two punch. The brass-touched rock fervency of “Things I Can’t Control” continues the impressive run, balancing the guitars, organs, and brass with cohesive intuition.
The album struts its dynamic tonal appeal with the ensuing tracks “Separate Ways” and “Worried About the Young.” The former shows a tender R&B appeal, lyrically striving to avoid conflict whilst admitting “I know I’ve been working, maybe too much. And now we’re having problems; baby this ain’t us.” A bouncier organ-laden hook arrives in continuing the “heading for a heartbreak,” path — though striving to turn things around, and doing so within a beautifully melodic accompaniment in a more subdued yet very emotive vein, relative to the opening tracks.
“Worried About the Young” follows with a jazzy pop and rock intertwining, set amidst lyrics with a socially relevant exploration regarding economic hardships within Gullage’s generation. “Can’t find a decent job,” commiserating vocals let out, exuding a fear for the young and “the way this world is turning.” Christone “Kingfish” Ingram also features on the track, being the same age as Gullage and aiding the sentiments of generational tumult; it’s a poignant thematic and memorably melodic success.
Go Be Free succeeds with its traversal of bluesy rock and soulful introspection alike, continuing with fervent quality throughout the second half — from the saloon-set keys of “Stop That Stuff” to the sweltering rocker “Hot House” and heartfelt closing ballad “Home to You.” Gullage’s vocals and songcraft impress decisively throughout, firmly establishing himself amongst the upcoming generation of standout blues artists.
