A traditional approach is taken by James Wheeler on Can’t Take It. The Chicago native and prolific songwriter exudes a relaxed, knowing authority on originals like “Who Loves You Baby?,” “These Hard Hard Times” and “Wasting My Time,” while dropping in touches of down-home humor and worldly insights on tunes like “The Weaker Sex,” “This Can’t Be Happening to Me,” “I Can’t Take It” and “She’s Gonna Pay.” Simple, grounded, no-nonsense blues from the soulful elder with a milk chocolate voice. Great support throughout by Chicago stalwarts Ken Saydak on piano, Billy Flynn on guitar, Bob Stroger on bass, Marty Binder on drums and Ron Sorin on harmonica.
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