The multi-talented instrumentalist and master of the carefully crafted pop song returned to the Rrazz Room for a high volume intimate engagement that on opening night heavily favored his many hits from the ‘70s and ‘80s. Caldwell helped forge the blue-eyed soul groove, mixing R&B with pop, smooth jazz and swing influences into a multi-platinum selling success both as a performer and songwriter for the era’s major stars. He helped invent the formula used by so many bands and solo artists: smooth tasty guitar solos, funky bass beats, great vocal harmonies and the use of synthesized keys.

“Coming Down from Love” is perfect example of one of Caldwell’s well-crafted pop songs. “Heart of Mine,” a huge hit written for Boz Scaggs, is better as performed by the writer. Caldwell’s voice is perfect for a romantic ballad, mixing his great love of music from the Great American Songbook with the modern R&B and soul singers. “What You Won’t Do for Love,” from his first CD, put Bobby on the map and was a staple of early AM radio. “Stuck on You,” a beautiful ballad, and his gift to Al Jarreau of his own “All or Nothing at All” were set highlights.

The stellar guitar work of Carlyle Barriteau, the rhythm section and Caldwell’s own keyboards, recorder and guitar playing blend seamlessly throughout the set of R&B, soul, and ‘80s pop. While the mix was perfect, the volume in such a small venue often overpowered the vocals. Still, Caldwell is the consummate professional and while I missed most popular music while following the Grateful Dead from 1978 to 1995, he remains one of my favorite treasures of what I call the “AM transistor radio era.”

Steve Murray
Cabaret Scenes
September 9, 2010
www.cabaretscenes.org