The MGs at the Height of their Powers
The classic "Time is Tight" alone would make Up Tight a must-have. But listen to "Tank's Lament," a slowed down, deeply soulful version of the same tune, and it grabs you all over again in a reflective mood. On "We've Got Johnny Wells," the band builds to almost unbearable tension with driving snare, guitar/bass punches, and dramatic organ chords, and then releases it all with a funky groove riding on a sinuous bass line and tinny guitar chords. Just try to keep still when you hear this one! "Down at Ralph's Joint" is aural fried chicken. "Deadwood Dick" portrays a mysterious, menacing character you don't want to cross. "Run, Tank Run" is a heart-pounding depiction of a life-or-death chase. "Cleveland Now" is cool, funky, and dangerous, with nice bongo work. Up Tight even has some vocals -- Judy Clay on "Children, Don't Weary" and Booker T. himself on "Johnny, I Love You" and "Blues in the Gutter." I love Booker T. and the MGs, and for me Up Tight is their crowning achievement.
