(April 24, 2025) Released on April 18th, the album Father & Son is a brilliant pairing with the master of the bass Nathan East and his son, keyboardist Noah East. A collection of new tunes and updated arrangements of classic songs abound on this long-player, augmented by a little help from friends such as Eric Clapton (of whom Nathan has served as the guitar great’s bassist) and veteran flautist Hubert Laws.
The Stevie Wonder-written gem, “Until You Come Back To Me (That’s What I’m Gonna Do),”, has been recorded by several, including the composer himself in 1967. Many years later, Aretha Franklin placed her stamp on the tune, becoming a Top 10 smash in early 1974.
With this version by Nathan and Noah, they wisely arranged the tune to reflect a more somber yet upbeat Gospel/Soul tone. Starting slowly, then kicking it uptempo nice and easy. The instrumentation is kept simple – organ, piano, bass, guitar and drums.
The icing on the cake is provided by legendary powerhouse Merry Clayton on the lead vocals. Y’all should know the name…okay, I’ll share some clues – “Gimme Shelter” (backup vocals with Mick Jagger and the Rolling Stones), longtime tenure with Ray Charles’ Raelettts, many brilliant and criminally underpromoted albums for Lou Adler’s Ode Records. Merry plays along with the intro – keeping it low and sweet. By the song’s second verse, Ms. Clayton is revved up and making her point mighty clear for all to hear.
Let’s give praise, though, to the mighty Waters – Julia and Maxine, who provide the backing vocals on this masterful take. Who HAVEN’T they sang backup for. Merry, Julia and Maxine take “Until You Come Back To Me” to the mighty church of soul. Sister Ree would be proud.
While this writer is very picky when it comes to remakes and covers (there is a difference between the two, IMHO – more on that at another time), Nathan, Noah, Merry, Maxine, Julia and the many players on “Until You Come Back To Me” have served this rendition quite well. Excellent work, y’all.
By Kevin Goins
