|
6 of 8 people found the following review helpful:
5.0 out of 5 stars
A natural transition......., 8 Oct 2004
As a lifetime Chakaholic, I was eagerly awaiting this LSO accompanied release by one of the, if not the greatest vocalists of our generation."Classikhan" is a take on some of Chaka's favourite songs since her childhood. Songs such as "Teach Me Tonight", "I'm In The Mood For Love", "Crazy" and "Round Midnight", all covered so frequently, become Chaka's own - her indelible stamp is sealed on each take. Her versions of "Hey Big Spender" (the opener), "Goldfinger" & "Diamonds Are Forever" will have Dame Shirley gleefully doing the conga around Tiger Bay. For those who have doubts about Chaka's continuing ability to hit those notes and deliver, there is no need for concern. Her voice is in fabulous form and she hits notes that most of todays so-called soul singers would dream of. Her take on the beautiful "To Sir With Love" is astonishing, with the LSO string arrangements in part sounding uncannily like Clare Fischer's arrangements on some of the classic Rufus & Chaka Khan tracks from the 70's. One new track, "I Believe", co-written by Chaka is a lyrically moving ballad featuring some deft piano accompaniment and fits perfectly into this classic album. In the UK, the lack of publicity surrounding this release means that it is arriving on the scene far too gently.......this should be storming the classier radio stations ensuring that the world's greatest soul singer is once again recognised for the immense and invaluable contribution she has made to today's music scene. This compelling release further substantiates Chaka's standing at the very top. Buy it..............this is class!!!!!!!
|