"We are well away from straight blues here, the overall sound a sophisticated blend of Rn'B, soul and blues, aided in no small measure by Darrell Leonard's horn arrangements ... So, why Volume 1? Apparently Teresa feels that she has only skimmed the surface of Texan guitarists and there are more friends who could be asked to contribute. If a second volume does appear this reviewer will be first in line for a copy! Highly recommended".
"This one has all the attributes that earned James & The Rhythm Tramps a Grammy nomination - strong songwriting, rocking energy from the whole ensemble, and James' made-for-the-blues vocals. Even with the various guitarist guests, the overriding essence of the core band remains intact. The guitarists add some spice but never dominate".
"James and the band present an enticing dozen tracks of soul blues that go down smoother than a shot of home-stilled firewater. James never seems to strain for an effect on the mic, whesther easy-grooving on the slick-shuffling I Got a Love I Wanna Hold on To or salting the paranoia-laced lyrics of Things Ain't Like That with insinuating swings into the low register ... If the subsequent volumes share this same vibrant spirit, here's hoping for plenty more to come".