one of many mainstream artists singing the praises of Eric Gales who has been working diligently at his craft since his 1991 debut album . Eric , a child prodigy , was only 16 years old back then and he has lived a life of hard and high times . Middle Of The Road is a culmination of his journey going from renegade to redeemed as told in compelling tunes such as “ Change In Me ( The Rebirth ) and “ Help Yourself .” Gales writes provocative , personal songs all punctuated by his potent guitar leads and big bass lines . Listen closely for loads of lavish licks paired with life lessons in songs that are bluesy and bold . This 11-track CD features a number of guests including Gary Clark Jr . The two tip their hats to the legendary Freddy King with their scary good version of the seductive “ Boogie Man .” Eric returns to his roots to jam with his brother and mentor Eugene Gales on a rousing “ Repetition ” flowing into the serious and spiritual “ Help