These days, there are a few things that one can count on in life. One of them is this—if Johnny Rawls is making music, it’s worth it to set aside a moment or two and enjoy it. Because he is one of the most consistent producers and musicians around. With Tribute To Soul, Rawls adds the art of collaboration, as he is joined by vocalist and guitarist Dave Keller. They play with keyboardist Ira Friedman, bassist Alex Budney, and drummer Jay Gleason. Additional support is from the three-piece horn section of Paul Johnson (tenor and baritone saxophones), Ben DeLong (trumpet), and Travis Geiman (trombone).

The album pays tribute to many of Rawls’ mentors, including O.V. Wright, for whom he served as musical director. Some tracks are familiar, as well as a few rarely heard gems, all well worth exploring.