What is immediately apparent is the influence that 'broken' beat has had in the progression of his sound. Nowhere is this his catching the bugz more apparent than on the title song, "Souls Like Mine" which at times sounds as if it could have been a demo discovered from the Dego & Kaidi vaults. A catchy mid-tempo number whereupon drum snares scatter and regroup over incessant keys stabs while Alton croons (yes croons! lol) a calling card for his fellow righteous spirits. Such influences are also obvious on lead single Possibilities, but to a lesser degree (and mixed success). However with the vocals from Belgian newcomer Lady Linn show great promise and the track would've benefited from a reworked production. Regardless she's certainly a singer to look out for in the future.

It is at the centre of the album that Alton really gets to the heart of the matter, kicking off in style with the rootsy Afro rhythms on "Knowledge of the Pygmies" which pair effortlessly with his considerable experience producing house music. Better still is "Long Time Comin'" blessed with the considerable presence from Nonie gospel calling to the glory of God and Nature, pairing well with Alton Miller's conga drumming prowess; certainly when the hints of a dutty bass line filter into the fray, you might be prepared to reaffirm your faith. Or conver for that matter! This strong form is continues into the twisted funk of "Don't Close Your Eyes" in which songstress Angelique keeps your eyes and ears firmly committed to the sound. It's also certain to go down well with fans of the Dollis originated sound. Souls Like Mine is definitely an album in which Alton Miller has to his considerable credit, only chosen a handful of guests who all offer a substantial contribution to his record.

And for the most part it is his record, and a noteworthy one at that with Alton Miller at the helm matching his vocals with the soothing 'Find A Way' while possible hints of Loose Ends' output emerge on 'Time is On Our Side' to impressive effect. Perhaps the album could've benefited from a nip and tuck, especially during the final third where momentum is lost compared to the previous heights. It may have been preferable to end on a high with Beautiful Brown People, a twisted conga assisted number with fellow Detroit resident Malik Alston contributing an emotive flute solos, true motor city soul, and a more fitting swansong. The final three tracks will be more familiar ot followers of his musical career, the beatdown of After the Rain being noteworthy but feel out of place on the album, perhaps an seperate EP would've been preferable. Despite some misgivings, overall I consider it to be a successful work, one which displays Alton Miller trying out new things, and at its best taking onboard varied influences and creating a strong sound of its very own. An album that is not perfect by any means, but certainly an album worthy of your time and hopefully something he can build upon in future.

Tracklist
Between The Middle 8:01
Possibilities 6:24
Souls Like Mine 4:08
Knowledge Of The Pygmies 6:27
Long Time Comin' 6:24
Don't Close Your Eyes 5:10
Find A Way 4:29
Time Is On Our Side 4:40
Beautiful Brown People 5:45
After The Rain 7:00
Malakou 6:32
Inside Out 9:12

Available to buy from juno @ http://www.juno.co.uk/ppps/products/267599-01.htm&highlight=alton%20miller