The posthumous Roebuck “Pops” Staples release Don’t Lose This comes to us by way of the creative partnership between Mavis Staples and Jeff Tweedy, a collaboration that brought the 2010 Grammy-winning You Are Not Alone and 2013’s One True Vine. Preceding his December 2000 death, Staples was his fourth solo album, and over a decade later the album is an endearing family affair featuring Tweedy’s son, Spencer (drums) and Pops’ daughters – Cleotha, Yvonne and Mavis Staples (backing vocals). Don’t Lose This serves as a smart and astutely crafted homage to Pops’ blues, gospel and soul legacy. Pops’ original vocals were left untouched, and their gravelly familiarity particularly brings to life the opening track “Somebody Was Watching” and the intimate “Nobody’s Fault But Mine.” Don’t Lose This leaves an overwhelming celebratory mark and the perfect swansong for one of the genre’s greats! – Written by JFelton
SIMILAR | Solomon Burke, The Blind Boys of Alabama, Ike and Tina Turner, Booker T. Jones, Lee Fields and The Expressions, Mavis Staples, The Staples Singers