YUSUF / CAT STEVENS – Tell ‘Em I’m Gone! – LP – Yellow Vinyl [DEC 5]

LP – Yellow Vinyl

Tell Em Im Gone was produced with the legendary Rick Rubin and sees Yusuf explore some of his bluesier influences. In many ways, the album ties in with Foreigner and Numbers in that he is temporarily putting aside his more recognizable folky sound to indulge in other musical traditions that have had a significant impact upon him. True fans may be aware that Leadbelly has always been one of Yusufs favorite artists and this is now overwhelmingly evident in his music.

Alongside its original compositions, Tell Em Im Gone contains covers of songs that are dear to Yusuf such as Edgar Winters Dying to Live, Luther Dixon/Al Smiths Big Boss Man, and a bluesy reworking of Jimmie Davies/Charles Mitchells You Are My Sunshine. Sonically, the album feels authentic to the blues, but the presence of Yusufs unique musical sensibilities is unmistakable. The album cover was designed by Yusuf and illustrated by the artist William Stout.

Tracklist:

A1 I Was Raised In Babylon
A2 Big Boss Man
A3 Dying To Live
A4 You Are My Sunshine
A5 Editing Floor Blues

B1 Cat & The Dog Trap
B2 Gold Digger
B3 The Devil Came From Kansas
B4 Tell ‘Em I’m Gone
B5 Doors