Big Dog 92-7 Music Guide

Blue Note Plays Ray Charles

RELEASE
February 01, 2005
LABEL
Blue Note
GENRES
Jazz, Jazz-Pop, Soul Jazz, Jazz Blues

Album Review

Blue Note Plays Ray Charles contains 11 previously released performances by jazz artists associated with the label who dip into the songbook of "Brother Ray." These are enjoyable re-creations courtesy of several Hammond B-3 masters, including Jimmy McGriff's "I Got a Woman," Freddie Roach's "Night Time Is the Right Time," and Jimmy Smith's "I'm Movin' On." Also of note is guitarist Grant Green's lyrical take on "I Can't Stop Loving You," with pianist Herbie Hancock's light, late-night blues touch influenced by The Genius After Hours. On past Blue Note Plays releases, the time line of music has tended to cross several decades, making for an erratic and jarring listening experience. Fortunately, there is a consistency on Blue Note Plays Ray Charles, as nine of the tracks were recorded in the '60s with the exception of two by Lou Rawls: "That's Where It's At," with Charles on vocals, from 1989 and "Hide nor Hair" from 1992. This budget-priced release is recommended to all fans of Ray Charles, whether they are jazz fans or not.
Al Campbell, Rovi

Track Listing

  1. That's Where It's At
  2. I Got a Woman
  3. What Would I Do Without You
  4. This Little Girl of Mine
  5. Ain't That Love
  6. (Night Time Is) The Right Time
  7. Hallelujah, I Love Her So
  8. Drown in My Own Tears
  9. Hide nor Hair
  10. I Can't Stop Loving You
  11. I'm Movin' On