(September 26, 2022) The Huntsville, Alabama-born Kim Tibbs released her massive double LP (vinyl!) and single CD set, The Science of Completion, Vol. 1 over a week ago – and it debuted at the top of the UK Soul Charts. Just from the suggested track, “Summertime,” and the backstory regarding the sessions, fans of the retro-soul vibe will love what they hear.
First the session – Kim cut the entire album at the Royal Studios in Memphis. If you know your soul history, this was the place where the good Reverend Al Green cut his classic Hi Records gems – produced by the late Willie Mitchell. The studios are now under the ownership of Willie’s son, guitarist/co-producer Lawrence Boo Mitchell, who – along with a host of musicians on rhythm, strings and horns - create a 70’s soul vibe for 2022, based on arrangements supplied by Kim along with Mark Franklin.
(September 26, 2022) The Huntsville, Alabama-born Kim Tibbs released her massive double LP (vinyl!) and single CD set, The Science of Completion, Vol. 1 over a week ago – and it debuted at the top of the UK Soul Charts. Just from the suggested track, “Summertime,” and the backstory regarding the sessions, fans of the retro-soul vibe will love what they hear.
First the session – Kim cut the entire album at the Royal Studios in Memphis. If you know your soul history, this was the place where the good Reverend Al Green cut his classic Hi Records gems – produced by the late Willie Mitchell. The studios are now under the ownership of Willie’s son, guitarist/co-producer Lawrence Boo Mitchell, who – along with a host of musicians on rhythm, strings and horns - create a 70’s soul vibe for 2022, based on arrangements supplied by Kim along with Mark Franklin.
Now for “Summertime”: this here is an original tune, not to be confused with the Gershwin classic. The arrangement is laid back, a jazzy, lush and soulful burner. Kim’s sultry, supple voice starting low on the first verse, then kicking into the higher register by verse two is welcoming to the ear, keeping your attention. Then the scat towards the end…tasty.
My only wish is that “Summertime” should have been chosen as a single release for this past June, in time for the season of warm summer breezes. But don’t let that stop you from spinning this gem as the temperature drops in the coming weeks. Kim’s “Summertime” on your stereo or mobile device, along with a hot beverage of your choice, and a cozy sofa or chair will be enough to keep you warm this fall and winter. Listen and enjoy.
By Kevin Goins