Velvet Soul
Carmen McRae · 1975
72 min · 19 tracks · jazz
A lush blend of jazz sophistication and emotive storytelling framed by McRae's captivating vocals.
Why this album works
'Velvet Soul' is significant for its critical reception, with notable praise from various jazz publications for McRae's vocal prowess and innovative arrangements. It contributed to the jazz genre's broader appeal in the 1970s, influencing subsequent artists seeking to blend traditional jazz with contemporary sounds. The album showcases how female artists were redefining their roles within a historically male-dominated industry.
- Best for
- wave-like emotional peaks captivating vocal storytelling for reflective evenings
- Context
- Released in 1975, 'Velvet Soul' was Carmen McRae's follow-up to her critically acclaimed album 'Carmen Sings Monk'. At this point in her career, McRae was solidifying her reputation as a leading jazz vocalist, known for her unique interpretations of standards and ability to convey deep emotion. This album further established her artistry during a period when jazz was evolving and intersecting with other genres.
- Stylistic neighbors
- Aretha Franklin· Bing Crosby· Ella Fitzgerald· Dave Brubeck· Chet Atkins· Ray Charles· Dean Martin· Andy Williams
Tracklist
Best experienced from track one — press play and let it unfold.
- 1 Nice Work If You Can Get It 2:51
- 2 It Takes a Whole Lot of Human Feeling Standout 3:49
- 3 I Fall in Love Too Easily 3:50
- 4 Hey John 3:25
- 5 Where Are the Words 3:19
- 6 Straighten Up and Fly Right 3:01
- 7 Inside a Silent Tear Standout 6:10
- 8 Imagination 4:23
- 9 The Right to Love Standout 4:18
- 10 All the Things You Are 4:02
- 11 You're Mine You 3:12
- 12 You and I 4:50
- 13 How Could I Settle for Less 2:44
- 14 The Good Life 2:53
- 15 Sunshine of My Love 3:12
- 16 Exactly Like You 3:45
- 17 There Will Come a Time 4:20
- 18 Masquerade 4:08
- 19 Livin' 4:28
Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata
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