Album Info
| Artist: | Ray Charles |
| Album: | Genius + Soul = Jazz |
| Gatefold: | Yes |
| Released: | US, 14 May 2021 |
Tracklist:
| A1 | From The Heart | 3:30 |
| A2 | I've Got News For You | 4:28 |
| A3 | Moanin' | 3:14 |
| A4 | Let's Go | 2:39 |
| A5 | One Mint Julep | 3:02 |
| B1 | I'm Gonna Move To The Outskirts Of Town | 3:38 |
| B2 | Stompin' Room Only | 3:35 |
| B3 | Mister C | 4:28 |
| B4 | Strike Up The Band | 2:35 |
| B5 | Birth Of The Blues | 5:05 |
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Description
"**Genius + Soul = Jazz**" is a seminal album by the legendary Ray Charles, released in 1961. This album stands as a testament to Charles' versatility and his ability to transcend musical genres. Known primarily for his contributions to rhythm and blues, Charles ventured into the realm of jazz with this project, and the result is nothing short of extraordinary.
The album was recorded at Van Gelder Studio, Englewood Cliffs, New Jersey, and was produced by Creed Taylor. It features arrangements by Quincy Jones and Ralph Burns, two giants in the world of jazz and orchestration. The backing band for this album is none other than the Count Basie Orchestra, although Count Basie himself does not perform on the album. The orchestra's involvement adds a rich, full-bodied sound that complements Charles' dynamic piano playing and soulful vocals.
One of the standout tracks on the album is "One Mint Julep," which became a hit single. The song showcases Charles' ability to blend jazz with his signature R&B style, featuring a catchy melody and a swinging rhythm. The brass section, with its sharp, punctuated notes, provides a vibrant backdrop to Charles' playful piano riffs.
Another notable track is "I've Got News for You," a bluesy number that highlights Charles' emotive vocal delivery. The lyrics tell a story of heartbreak and betrayal, themes that Charles often explored in his music. The arrangement, with its lush strings and moody horns, enhances the song's melancholic atmosphere.
"Let’s Go" is an instrumental track that allows Charles to shine as a pianist. His playing is both technically proficient and deeply expressive, demonstrating his profound understanding of jazz idioms. The track is a lively, upbeat number that captures the joyous spirit of jazz.
The album also includes "I'm Gonna Move to the Outskirts of Town," a slow, blues-infused track that features a soulful saxophone solo. Charles' vocal performance is raw and powerful, conveying a sense of longing and determination.
"Birth of the Blues" is another highlight, with its swinging rhythm and infectious energy. The song is a perfect example of how Charles could take a standard and make it his own, infusing it with his unique style and personality.
Throughout the album, the interplay between Charles and the orchestra is seamless. The arrangements by Jones and Burns are sophisticated yet accessible, allowing Charles' talents to shine while providing a rich, textured soundscape. The use of brass and woodwind instruments adds depth and complexity to the music, creating a dynamic listening experience.
"Genius + Soul = Jazz" received critical acclaim upon its release and is considered one of Charles' finest works. It reached No. 4 on the Billboard Pop Album chart and No. 1 on the Billboard R&B chart, a testament to its broad appeal. The album's success helped to further establish Charles as a versatile and innovative artist, capable of crossing musical boundaries and appealing to a wide audience.
In conclusion, "Genius + Soul = Jazz" is a masterful album that showcases Ray Charles' extraordinary talent and his ability to blend different musical genres. The collaboration with the Count Basie Orchestra, along with the expert arrangements by Quincy Jones and Ralph Burns, results in a rich, vibrant sound that is both timeless and captivating. This album is a must-listen for fans of Ray Charles, jazz, and anyone who appreciates great music.
