OK, as a Russell fan, when I first saw the track list for this album I wasn't too impressed. Not a hint of classical music anywhere.
But I've had my copy 4 weeks now, and it's never out of the cd player!
I have my favourite tracks, but you'll find that the musical arrangements are stunning, the sax and bass supberb and most of the album was recorded the 'old fashioned' way, i.e Russell sang with the band/orchestra, not to a backing track. And it shows, IMO that is what makes this album so special. It really sounds as if he's singing live and just for you!!
Me & Mrs Jones - I've always liked this song and Russell doesn't disappoint. Smooth as silk, sexy and rich.
If You Don't know me by Now - The emotion in this song makes me cry, it's so sad. It's all about trust you see.
Papa Was a Rolling Stone - You just have to dance to this one, I defy you to keep your feet still!
Georgia - Beautiful. What more can I say?
New Your State of Mind - Beautiful version, Russell's voice soars.
Louisianna 1927 - This song is based on the floods of 1927 that devisated Louisianna.
House of the Rising Sun - If, like me, you grew up to the Eric Burden and the Animals version, you will be stunned by this version. It is over 8 minutes long and IMO the outstanding track on the album. I don't know how Russell got his voice down soooo low, but this is so emotional, it sends shivers down my spine and makes the hairs on the back of your neck stand up. Love it or hate it, amongst his fans it's been christened 'The Marmite Song'!!!!!!!