Thursday 6 August 2015

Ray Charles & Betty Carter – RAY CHARLES & BETTY CARTER****

Ev’ry Time We Say Goodbye/You & I/Goodbye-We’ll Be Together Again/People Will Say We’re In Love/ Cocktails For Two/Side By Side/Baby Its Cold Outside/Together/For All We Know/Takes Two To Tango/Alone Together/Just You Just Me

Ray Charles & Betty Carter sees prolific Ray Charles team up with jazz vocalist Betty Carter for a recording session in which they duet on many well known standards. (US:52)

“Nice interpretations of some well known standards. Both are in their element when they provide ironical interaction in People Will Say We're In Love and Baby It's Cold Outside.”

“Like a delicious cocktail, the voices of Ray and Betty blend perfectly. Exquisite arrangements by Marty Paich who conducts the orchestra.”

“Ray Charles's decision to cut an album of duets with then rising jazz singer Betty Carter defines the phrase 'unerring instinct.' Charles responds to Carter's gorgeous voice and compelling melodic changes with some of his softest singing.”

“I always considered Ray Charles a blues singer, and still do, but his voice and style compliment jazz artist Betty Walker's perfectly. If you want to hear Ray Charles at his softest, get this album. The only criticism I have is there is too much accompaniment by the orchestra and back-up singers.”

“Although a big Charles fan, I must admit that Betty Carter works on a different level, showing the difference between the genius of popular music and a great jazz-vocalist. Recommended for both the jazz audience, and for Charles' fans.”

“I was unaware that he and Betty Carter had collaborated musically. What a nice surprise this one was for me. Ray is sensual in a way that's classy and sophisticated and Betty's voice is so sweet and coy, but never boring. Together, this blend makes for a relaxing, jazzy sensuousness that should not be missed.”

“This is one of the very finest collaborations ever recorded. Carter and Charles are at their peak here and the arrangements support their artistry magnificently. This is an absolute treasure.”

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