Joe Cocker's previous record Hard Knocks (2010) brought him great success. The album was his best work in a long time and received worldwide acclaim. The successor Fire It Up easily rivals Hard Knocks. Cocker's 23rd studio album sounds like its predecessor, but has a little more punch. That is already clear with the fiery opener Fire It Up and the subsequent I'll Be Your Doctor. Cocker sounds
… powerful, driven and passionate. The emotion in his voice is beautifully reflected in the sensitive ballads You Love Me Back and You Don't Need A Million Dollars. Of course, also on this album are formidable background singers, and especially Kara Britz makes a big impression on the song I Come In Peace. Fire It Up has everything that made Cocker great in the 1970s: soul, rock, blues and an unparalleled dose of emotion in his voice. This is without a doubt his best work after the turn of the century. (BvdV)more
