Kelsey Heng on June 27th, 2013

0

“I am still hot,” laughed the legendary Booker T. Jones, explaining to the crowd Tuesday night at the El Rey Theatre that despite his age, he and his sound are very much still on fire. “Sound the Alarm,” the new album from Booker T and friends, was titled with this reality in mind.

• Recap and photos by Kelsey Heng

Tuesday’s show was a unique gathering, filled with guest performers and played to a cross-generational audience knowing they were in the presence of an American music icon. With Jones seated at his organ and a full band at his side, the night featured a variety of collaborators ranging from young American Idol Joshua Ledet to a surprise short appearance by Bill Withers.

The 68-year-old (and Grammy Award winner for lifetime achievement) told stories
of growing up in Memphis and having learned everything he knew on Beale Street. Playing his most iconic hits “Green Onions,” “Hip Hug Her” and “Time is Tight,” he transported everyone to the world of 1969 Memphis soul. The blues still pervade everything Jones touches, as displayed by the new songs off “Sound the Alarm.” Kori Withers, daughter of Bill Withers, and Ted Jones, son of Booker T., each performed duets off the album.

Additional highlights of the night were Ledet’s version of the James Brown “It’s a Man’s Man’s World.” which according to Booker T. was a performance that even recently brought the White House down earlier this year. Also standout moments was Ted Jones’ guitar work on “Green Onions” and Anthony Hamilton’s soul-filled ode to Otis Redding with “(Sittin’ On) The Dock of the Bay.”

The full lineup of guest performers in order of appearance were Jay James, Poncho Sanchez, Joshua Ledet, Ted Jones, Kori Withers, Ledisi, and Anthony Hamilton.