Rating:
Genre:
Vocal Music
Release Date: 03/13/2001
Give your
Luther Vandross CDs a break. Instead, slide in this snappy ten-track import featuring
Billy Eckstine and orchestra after the wine has flowed and get ready for the passion. The arrangements are no joke: the swings are intricate with hooks as powerful as
Joe Frazier's left paw; the
ballads feature similar subtle thematic shifts that are staples of mystery movies; and
Eckstine, in his prime, handles the big glossy charts as adroitly as Nascar drivers handle left turns.
"Blowing the Blues Away" is a blistering
swing piece that will blow you away with its tenacity. He counters with
"If That's the Way You Feel," where he uses a low, throaty, melting vocal on a song designed to corral a straying heart. Lovers of
James Brown's '60s rendition of
"Prisoner of Love" will melt like butter in a hot kitchen when listening to
Eckstine's smooth interpretation. Effortlessly, he gives his all every time.
"Without a Song" is a prime example of his silky assurance. Female vocalists are spotlighted on
"Don't Blame Me" and
"Mean to Me," adding variety and showcasing members of
Eckstine's revue.
Cool Mr. B is a most appropriate title for these ten daggers.
~Andrew Hamilton, All Music Guide
;)
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