by Cub KodaThe idea of teaming Clay with his original Hi Records producer Willie Mitchell serves up a winner on This Time Around, an album filled with solid songwriting and great playing. Cash McCall's tunesmithing talents are served up on "You Never Miss Your Water" and "That's How It Is (Slap Some Sense In Me)," the latter being a remake of Otis' single on One-Der-Ful back in 1967. The backing musicians all have long pedigrees in Memphis soul music circles, either working at Stax or with producer Mitchell. The result is one sensational album capturing an artist in the prime of his soulful art. Other highlights include "You're the One I Choose," "When Hearts Grow Cold," "I Can Handle It," "That's How It Is" and the title track. Otis Clay may have started singing and recording some 30-odd years ago, but he's never sounded more in command of his talent.