MIKE ZITO Source: The Scene (Houston-area monthly) Date: 06/2008 Writer: Jim Shortt

TODAY: Mike Zito. Eclecto Groove Records, May 20, 2008. This album has 13 cuts, twelve of which are Zito originals. Total time is just over 57 minutes. Eclecto Groove didn't spare the horses on this project. Grammy winners David Z (Prince, Etta James, Jonny Lang) and Tony Braunagel (Taj Mahal, B.B. King, Bonnie Raitt) co-produced. The lineup of studio musicians includes drummer Braunagel; bassist James “Hutch” Hutchinson (Bonnie Raitt, Joe Cocker); keyboardist Benmont Tench (Tom Petty); and percussionist Michito Sanchez (Steve Winwood, Elton John.) Although he's done four other CDs, this is singer/songwriter/guitarist Zito's debut, label-backed national release. The songs are contemporary, diverse and well crafted. His rich voice is that of a natural soul singer. While Zito is a master guitarist, he doesn't dominate the disc with never-ending solos. He gives good emphasis to the songs and knows when to let his crack band shine. "Love Like This," a good choice for the opener, is a strong contemporary blues song. The slower, soulful "Superman" follows.  It has a catchy groove, aided by nifty electric piano backing. Zito adds a touch of jazz to the soul tune, "Holding Out For Love." Next comes his cover of Prince's "Little Red Corvette." Zito dials the tempo down and turns it into a cool, melancholy soul tune. "Universe" is a rocker about Zito's take on life. Braunagel's drumming pushes it along nicely. The percussion/drum driven rhythm of "Blinded," coupled with Zito's guitar, gives this song an irresistible groove. "Slow It Down" is fine, slow blues song. Zito's guitar solo dazzles. The title tune is happy soul ditty. "No Big City" is funky blues featuring Zito's razor-sharp guitar. Teresa James and Cece Bullard do dandy backing vocals. "Deep Down In Love" and "Dirty Things" are both so strongly reminiscent Stevie Ray Vaughan style blues that you can almost see his long shadow on Zito's fret board. "Hollywood" is a neat rocker about that town's hip lifestyle. Zito turns in an impressive closing ride. The disc closes with "Time To Go Home," a heart-felt rendering of a musician's life on the road from a man who knows whereof he speaks. The song closes with Zito singing and playing acoustic by himself, producing a strong emotional effect.   Highest recommendation.