Blue Corn Music
2002
Runaway Soul
About This Album
Dedicating one song to her late father who passed away in January 2002, Ruthie Foster's vocals mix gospel with a healthy helping of Texas blues in the vein of Bonnie Raitt or occasionally Melissa Etheridge. The mid-tempo opener, "Runaway Soul," is a solid beginning with harmonica and Hammond organ. Her softer side is also shown in some delightful harmonies. "Woke Up This Mornin'" has a Sunday church feeling, slowly building into a funky Southern track with a choir-like harmony. "Smalltown Blues" takes more of an acoustic slant, featuring mainly Foster and acoustic guitar dominating the tune. Foster rarely takes a wrong turn on the album, knowing her strengths and playing to them. "Home" is a soulful tune that has a tremendous and effortless flow, despite the rather heavy spiritual theme. "Hole in My Pocket," however, treads on similar ground, resulting in the track being a bit more stagnant and difficult to appreciate. One trait that makes the album very cohesive is how organic each song sounds, not slick over-produced radio fodder. "Give You My Love" has somewhat of an Elton John vibe, whether it's the melody or the song's structure.
Track List (try tracks 1,2,3 and 4)

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