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Lou Rawls: Live!
ByWay too long unavailable, Live! has largely been revered as one of Rawls' best albums by those in the know. Although its title suggests something somewhat different, this 1966 set was actually recorded in the studio before a small audience. Still, Rawls treats it like one of his usual sets, and his monologues and tune openers give the session much of its character. It also doesn't hurt that his backing quartet includes guitarist Herb Ellis and bassist Jimmy Bond.
The material ranges from blues classics to the day's current hits, such as "The Shadow of Your Smile and "The Girl From Ipanema. In fine form, Rawls imbues each tune with that deep timbre and seductive charm that has always been part and parcel of his musical muse. Here in its most unfettered form, Rawls' performance speaks so effectively that even if he had not recorded another thing, his reputation would be secured with Live!
Track Listing
Stormy Monday; Southside Blues/Tobacco Road; St. James Infirmary; The Shadow of Your Smile; I'd Rather Drink Muddy Water; Goin' To Chicago Blues; In the Evenin' (When the Sun Goes Down); The Girl From Ipanema; I Got It Bad and That Ain't Good; Street Corner Hustler's Blues/A World of Trouble.
Personnel
Lou Rawls
vocalsLou Rawls: vocals; Tommy Strode: piano; Herb Ellis: guitar; Jimmy Bond: bass; Earl Palmer: drums.
Album information
Title: Live! | Year Released: 2005 | Record Label: Capitol Records
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