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He was born in California, but Eric Lindell’s soulful sound makes it clear he is a Louisiana artist. The saxophone and bluesy guitar featured in his music give it the flavor of New Orleans, his adopted home.
Lindell released his debut album, “Bring It Back,” in 1996 and moved to New Orleans in 1999. Since his self-titled record in 2002, his career has continued to grow, producing several albums and a variety of live performances. Fans packed the Blues Tent for his show at this year’s Jazz Fest, where he first performed in 2005.
Lindell’s passion for music is evident in his vocals and playing, and that enthusiasm extends to the audience members, who can be heard cheering and whistling at shows. Lindell’s concerts include songs ranging from those the crowd can dance to, like the horn-driven “Lordy Lordy Lord,” to more mellow tunes such as “Lay Back Down.”
Following a summer tour that included dates in Nashville, St. Louis, New York and Toronto, Lindell is back in Louisiana to continue promoting his latest release. “Sunday Morning” features a Billy Preston tune as the title track and is Lindell’s rhythm and blues take on a collection of, primarily, country songs.
Included on the album is a cover of George Jones’ “She Thinks I Still Care” that turns the country classic into something that could be played at a blues lounge. “Sunday Morning” also offers the upbeat “Here I Am in Dallas,” originally by Faron Young, and a smooth, heartfelt rendition of Merle Haggard’s “Here in Frisco.” The album is available for download at www.ericlindell.com.
Next month, he is set to embark on the Legendary Rhythm and Blues Cruise with blues guitarist Anson Funderburgh, who joined Eric Lindell and the Sunliners on “Sunday Morning” and the summer tour. The cruise will leave from Ft. Lauderdale and include artists such as Irma Thomas, the Royal Southern Brotherhood and Marcia Ball.
In a YouTube video featured on his official website, Lindell says his music covers “good times, hard times, fun times – all the basics that everybody can relate to” and cites Junior Wells and Donny Hathaway as some of his inspirations.
Lindell incorporates a variety of genres into his music while adding his own flair. His albums have included reggae, soul, country, blues and rock tracks, and this diverse style makes him popular at any venue, from nightclubs to cruise ships to outdoor music festivals.
