I'm the Man is the debut album by the American musician Sherman Robertson, released in 1994.[1][2] It was initially released by Indigo Recordings, in 1993.[3] Robertson supported the album with European and North American tours.[4][5]
Production
Recorded at Chipping Norton Recording Studios in February 1993, the album was produced by Mike Vernon, and was the first release on his Code Blue imprint.[6][7] Robertson later stated that he did not care for the production.[8] Robertson had previously spent time playing guitar in the bands of Clifton Chenier, Rockin' Dopsie, and Terrance Simien, but missed playing blues.[9] It was important to Robertson that the lyrics to some of his songs concern more carefree and upbeat themes.[10] "Am I Losing You?" is a cover of the Cate Brothers song.[11]
The Edmonton Journal wrote that "the double-time pulse of his music owes more to Louisiana shuffles than the 1-4-5 progression of Chicago blues."[3] The Chicago Tribune noted that, "instead of utilizing Gulf Coast grooves, Vernon furnishes his charge with pop-slanted material reminiscent of Robert Cray's crossover strategy that adeptly showcases Robertson's soulful vocals."[13]The Guardian determined that Robertson "has a pleasant, easy vocal style and he's a technically accomplished guitarist, but there's no real soul or depth to his work, proficient as he may be."[14]
The Times opined that I'm the Man falls "rather too neatly into the upmarket, blues-with-soul niche carved to such endlessly resounding effect by Robert Cray."[15] The St. Petersburg Times advised: "Imagine Albert King doing Albert Collins, and you're in the ballpark."[16] The Sun-Sentinel concluded that, "both mellow and blistering, Robertson can sing a blue streak to match his fluid, rhythmic playing."[17]
AllMusic wrote that "I'm the Man is a fine album of electric blues and bluesy soul that underscores the singer/guitarist's Houston, TX, upbringing."[12]
.jpg)
