Artist: Ray Charles
Year: 1958
Genre: Rhythm & Blues
Grade: B+
I love the way that this live recording emphasizes the raw power of Ray Charles’ soulful voice. He sings as close to the microphone as possible, which transports the modern-day listener right back to July 5, 1958 at the Newport Jazz Festival. The concert really takes off when we reach the bluesy Side Two, of which the Charles originals “Talkin’ Bout You” and “A Fool for You” are the obvious highlights.
Ray Charles at Newport | Album Review