Hey Ladies
This has been a good month for R&B lovers. Particularly, R&B women. I haven't gotten around to Jill Scott, but I've played the latest from Bettye Lavette, Chaka Khan and Sharon Jones. And what different CD's they are.
Jones' heart is in 60's era Soul. With her superb backing band stealing the show, 100 Days 100 Nights is a quick 30 minute listen. The songs sound old, but they're new. This type of Soul can get too studious at longer lengths. So, 10 songs is just about right.
Lavette is early 70's Soul. Grittier and bluesier. Scene of the Crime is the most interesting of the 3 records, chiefly because of the backing band: Southern Rocker's Drive-By Truckers. A strange pairing, but Lavette's earthy vocals holds it together.
And then, Chaka Khan, is Old School Soul. Her Funk This, is a too long for its own good. But for the first time since the 80's, she sounds interested in making new music. Some covers (Jimi Hendrix, Michael McDonald) and a fiery duet with Mary J. Blige keep you interested. Overlong, but a return to form.
Jones' heart is in 60's era Soul. With her superb backing band stealing the show, 100 Days 100 Nights is a quick 30 minute listen. The songs sound old, but they're new. This type of Soul can get too studious at longer lengths. So, 10 songs is just about right.
Lavette is early 70's Soul. Grittier and bluesier. Scene of the Crime is the most interesting of the 3 records, chiefly because of the backing band: Southern Rocker's Drive-By Truckers. A strange pairing, but Lavette's earthy vocals holds it together.
And then, Chaka Khan, is Old School Soul. Her Funk This, is a too long for its own good. But for the first time since the 80's, she sounds interested in making new music. Some covers (Jimi Hendrix, Michael McDonald) and a fiery duet with Mary J. Blige keep you interested. Overlong, but a return to form.
posted by Tom Lane at 5:00 PM
<< Home