Putumayo World Music (label)
09 February 2010 (released)
23 March 2010
One doesn’t have to be an R&B purist to be seduced by Putumayo’s newest release, but it helps. Simply titled ‘Rhythm & Blues’, it is the label’s first album exclusively dedicated to the genre and features classic R&B performed by first generation legends, as well as rising stars of the genre’s retro revival.
Rhythm and blues originated in New Orleans, where it sprung from the rugged roots of gospel and blues. By the 1950’s it had reached popularity on a mainstream scale, fusing soulful tunes with pop sensibilities, while during the 60’s and 70’s this particular type of music became a global phenomenon thanks to artists like The Four Tops, Otis Redding and The Supremes.
All artists featured on this CD are recreating the sound and mood of the genre’s glory days.
Blues luminary Lavelle White’s opening track ‘I’ve Never Found A Man To Love’ sets the mark of quality for the rest of the album. Rich in emotion, the song’s upbeat soul rhythm combined with poppy backing vocals make it ideal to groove to.
Somewhat ironic then is the title of another track on the album, namely ‘Before I find The Right Girl For Me’ by Rockie Charles.
Other legends such as Snooks Eaglin and Irma Thomas are joined by other first generation soul artists like The Emotions and Sam Moore, to name but a few. One of the album’s standout tracks is in fact a collaboration between Moore (he of duo Sam & Dave’s ‘Soul Man’ fame), Keb’ Mo’ and Angie Stone. Their decision to cover the Howlin’ Wolf classic ‘Wang Dang Doodle’ was audacious to begin with – considering the fact that said track is not only a howlin’ classic, but has been penned by legendary songwriter and producer Willie Dixon. Despite the song’s pedigree reputation, Sam Moore and fellow musicians deliver a worthy cover version by adding their own unique touch to it.
Another cover version (this time of the Marion Black classic ‘Who Knows’) is performed by The Quantic Soul Orchestra, who spice up their arrangement with elements of reggae and Latin jazz.
The heartfelt and emotionally raw lyrics of Catherine Russell’s ‘Put Me Down Easy’ stand in contrast to the song’s easy-going, mid-pace beat as well as its melodious arrangements.
Irma Thomas’ song ‘River Is Waiting’ (performed with Henry Butler) is a fitting last track on the album – a bluesy number with dominating keyboard arrangements and a strong gospel sound. The lyrics - both woeful and hopeful at the same time - tell about leaving sorrows behind, to sail toward a new beginning.
The CD has an informative booklet attached, containing a brief history of rhythm & blues as well as mini-biographies of the featured artists. A wonderful little gem for connoisseurs of excellent music!
