[Dixielandjazz] Ray Charles reviewed

[Robert Ringwald]

Perhaps not OKOM but certainly MKOM.  


Charles Reigns Anew
by Jonathank Takiff
Philadelphia Daily News, April 5, 2011
When first released in 1965 by ABC/Paramount, "Ray Charles Live in Concert" was a
landmark. In its new, extended-length CD/streaming edition on Concord (A+), the encounter
is revelatory.
Limited by vinyl's 22-minutes-a-side capacity, the original leaned on the snappy,
jumping selections from Charles' show with his 12 horns a-blasting big band -- tunes
such as "I Got a Woman" and "Hallelujah, I Love Her So."
The LP also shared his comic genius with a gleefully tossed-off "Makin' Whoopee"
that would serve as role model for EVERY version recorded thereafter. (Liner notes
reveal Charles had no idea this album was being taped, so he was at his most playful
best.)
Now in the newly extended and digitally remastered version, the concert feels more
balanced and momentous. Ballad gems "Georgia on My Mind" and "That Lucky Old Sun"
are served in richly nuanced and leisurely treatments. And Brother Ray's party tray
expands with the scorching Afro-Cuban instrumental "One Mint Julep," his laugh-to-keep-from-crying
belter "Busted" and just-for-giggles "Two Ton Tessie."
All said, here's one of the 20th-century's greatest musical treasures at the peak
of his youthful performing powers.


--Bob Ringwald
www.ringwald.com
Fulton Street Jazz Band
530/ 642-9551 Office
916/ 806-9551 Cell
Amateur (Ham) Radio K6YBV

If 4 out of 5 people SUFFER from diarrhea
does that mean that one enjoys it?