I Be Trying
Cedric Burnside needs little to give a song character on I Be Trying. A guitar pattern, a firm rhythm and his warm voice usually provide the foundation. The open arrangements make small changes in his playing and singing easy to hear. This hill country blues sounds direct, with enough personality to offer more than an exercise in tradition.
The World Can Be So Cold immediately sets a spare tone. Guitar and drums keep the song moving while Burnside's singing makes its loneliness clear. There is little production between the performance and the listener. That closeness gives the opening its weight.
Step In brings more energy and a stronger rock feel. Luther Dickinson's slide guitar broadens the sound without overwhelming its simple foundation. Keep On Pushing benefits from his contribution too, but chooses a slower, heavier rhythm. The contrast shows how much movement Burnside can create with a small group of players.
The title track gains a brighter colour from his daughter's backing vocals. The music sounds upbeat while the words concern trying to become a better person. The voice keeps enough rough edges to make the effort behind that intention believable.
The versions of Bird Without A Feather and Hands Off That Girl fit naturally beside the original material. Burnside keeps their blues foundation clear while giving the songs a personal character. Later, Get Down creates a more openly danceable moment.
I Be Trying finds its variety in rhythm, tone and delivery. Listeners expecting large arrangements or extended guitar solos will need to adjust to that approach. Its appeal lies in the attention paid to small details. Burnside plays and sings with enough conviction to turn simple parts into strong songs. This warm, unpolished record keeps its music clear without reducing its emotional reach.
