Born in the Piedmont region (North Carolina) in 1929, Napoleon Brown Culp has been a respected singer since his heyday in the 1950s. Initially a gospel artist, he segued into soul and then blues and has made his home there for decades. His popularity waned in the U.S. after the 1950s, but he resurrected a viable career in Europe in the 1980s and has been reinvigorated in the U.S. in the last few years with the encouragement and support of former Muddy Waters guitarist Bob Margolin and other admirers.

“Long Time Coming” features 3 cover tunes and 9 originals. Brown’s vocal range is limited, his phrasing is predictable, and the power of his voice understandably has diminished with the years. His efforts are pleasing but unexciting.

The best reason to listen to this album is the stellar group of backing musicians. Lead guitar is handled by young gun Sean Costello, with appearances also by Margolin and West Coast standouts Junior Watson and Kid Ramos. Bass is played by one of the best around, Mookie Brill. Respected Jim Pugh contributes organ chops, and the rest of the supporting cast is equally good while appropriately allowing Brown his position in the spotlight.