Album Info
| Artist: | Etta James |
| Album: | At Last! |
| Gatefold: | Yes |
| Released: | Europe, 2017 |
Tracklist:
| A1 | Anything To Say You're Mine | |
| A2 | My Dearest Darling | |
| A3 | Trust In Me | |
| A4 | Sunday Kind Of Love | |
| A5 | Tough Mary | |
| A6 | My Heart Cries | |
| A7 | Spoonful | |
| A8 | Pushover | |
| B1 | I Just Want To Make Love To You | |
| B2 | At Last | |
| B3 | All I Could Do Was Cry | |
| B4 | Stormy Weather | |
| B5 | Girl Of My Dreams (Rendered As Boy Of My Dreams) | |
| B6 | It's A Crying Shame | |
| B7 | If I Can't Have You | |
| B8 | Next Door To The Blues |
Info About Buying Vinyl From Our Record Store
- We are a small independent record store located at 91 Plenty Rd, Preston in Melbourne, Australia (North of Northcote, between Thornbury & Reservoir)
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- Happy Listening!
Description
**Etta James - At Last! (1960)**
Etta James' debut studio album, "At Last!", released in November 1960 by Argo Records, stands as a monumental work in the annals of American music. The album showcases James' extraordinary vocal prowess and versatility, blending elements of blues, R&B, jazz, and soul. Produced by Phil and Leonard Chess, the album features orchestral arrangements by Riley Hampton, which add a lush, sophisticated backdrop to James' powerful voice.
**Tracklist and Highlights:**
1. **"Anything to Say You're Mine"** - The album opens with this soulful track, setting the tone for James' emotional depth and vocal control.
2. **"My Dearest Darling"** - A heartfelt ballad that highlights James' ability to convey vulnerability and longing.
3. **"Trust in Me"** - This song showcases her smooth, sultry voice, complemented by Hampton's elegant string arrangements.
4. **"A Sunday Kind of Love"** - A jazz standard that James makes her own with a passionate and nuanced performance.
5. **"Tough Mary"** - A more upbeat, R&B-infused track that demonstrates her versatility and dynamic range.
6. **"I Just Want to Make Love to You"** - Written by Willie Dixon, this blues classic is delivered with raw intensity and sensuality.
7. **"At Last"** - The title track and perhaps the most iconic song on the album, "At Last" has become synonymous with Etta James. Her rendition is timeless, characterized by its sweeping orchestration and her deeply expressive delivery.
8. **"All I Could Do Was Cry"** - A poignant ballad that tells a story of heartbreak and loss, showcasing James' storytelling ability.
9. **"Stormy Weather"** - Another standard that James interprets with a unique blend of strength and melancholy.
10. **"Girl of My Dreams"** - The closing track, which leaves listeners with a sense of James' broad stylistic range.
**Musicianship and Production:**
The musicianship on "At Last!" is impeccable, featuring contributions from some of the finest session musicians of the era. The arrangements by Riley Hampton are particularly noteworthy, providing a rich, orchestral sound that complements James' voice without overpowering it. The production by Phil and Leonard Chess is clean and polished, allowing James' vocal performances to shine through.
**Critical Reception and Legacy:**
Upon its release, "At Last!" received widespread acclaim from critics and audiences alike. The album's blend of genres and James' powerful voice resonated with a wide range of listeners, establishing her as a formidable talent in the music industry. Over the years, "At Last!" has been recognized as a classic, with the title track in particular becoming a staple at weddings and romantic occasions.
The album's influence extends beyond its initial release, impacting generations of artists across various genres. Etta James' ability to convey deep emotion and connect with her audience has inspired countless singers and musicians. "At Last!" has been included in numerous "greatest albums" lists and continues to be celebrated for its artistic and cultural significance.
**Conclusion:**
Etta James' "At Last!" is more than just a debut album; it is a testament to her extraordinary talent and a cornerstone of American music. The album's blend of blues, R&B, jazz, and soul, combined with James' powerful and emotive voice, creates a timeless listening experience. Whether you're a longtime fan or a newcomer to her music, "At Last!" is an essential addition to any music collection, offering a glimpse into the artistry of one of the greatest vocalists of all time.
