Theodis Ealey's blues, etc.

Theodis Ealey doesn't just play the blues. He's also proficient in R&B, funk and gospel, sometimes blending genres by introducing pop and old-school soul to a traditional blues groove. But instead of helping to make this Marietta-based singer/guitarist a crossover star, the mix-and-match approach also has confused his potential audience. Still, this hasn't prevented the musician from recording five well-received, tough-to-pigeonhole albums.

The latest, It's a Real Good Thang (released on Ealey's IFGAM label), continues the trend with remarkably cohesive results. With local celeb Francine Reed and labelmate Chick Willis assisting, Ealey effortlessly shifts between the gospel/R&B croon of "You've Got to Hurt Before You Heal," jazzy soulful pop on a superbly rearranged version of Bill Withers' "Ain't No Sunshine" and the Little Milton-style R&B of the leadoff track, "All My Baby Left Me Was a Note, My Guitar and a Cookie Jar."

With his entire catalog out of print after the demise of Atlanta's Ichiban label, Ealey is counting on this eclectic album — his first in four years — to reacquaint national audiences with his name and music.

Though he's found some resistance from blues purists and club owners who can't categorize him, he's proud that his approach reflects his diverse tastes. "Growing up near Natchez, Mississippi," he says, "I listened to blues like Muddy Waters and Lighting Hopkins, but I also listened to Chuck Berry. And I loved Hank Williams. Gospel, country, blues and Top 40 soul. Anything I play, that's what going to come out of me."

Theodis Ealey plays the River Room, Thurs., June 20 and 27, and the Vinings Inn Fri.-Sat., June 28 and 29.??