Overlooked Gem From a Talented Vocalist
Boomertunes | Illinois USA | 12/23/2008
(5 out of 5 stars)
"As the charismatic lead singer of the blues rock group Smith, Gayle McCormick blasted into the late 60's Top 40 with a remake of The Shirelles' hit "Baby It's You". Armed with a unique look and an amazing vocal instrument, she made a powerful first impression. After two albums and personnel changes, the group called it quits and Gayle continued as a solo performer. Her Dunhill album, "Gayle McCormick", was issued in 1971. This 2008 CD on Rev-Ola is a standard 10 song reissue of the original Dennis Lambert/Brian Potter production.
The tone of the material is that of a harder rocking Dusty Springfield-passionate, soulful, and moving. In fact, several of the tunes, (the first single) "Gonna Be Alright Now" and "If Only You Believe" could have easily fit on "Dusty In Memphis". The other originals include two with a gospel feel-"Save Me" and "Everything Has Got To Be Free"; a pop "C'est La Vie"; and the almost Top 40 hit "It's a Cryin' Shame". The work is rounded out with interesting covers of "Superstar", "Natural Woman", "Rescue Me" and "You Really Got A Hold On Me".
If you liked "Cameo" by Dusty (also produced by Lambert/Potter), you will consider this a companion piece."
Flashes of Brilliance
Helixblue | California | 01/07/2009
(4 out of 5 stars)
"This album was Gayle's first solo effort after a series of lackluster albums fronting with (A Group Called) Smith. On this CD, Gayle shows off her outstanding voice, and her vocal skills shine on the two singles released from this album - Cryin' Shame and It's Gonna Be Alright Now. However, most of the songs are covers and fail to showcase the full range of her singing abilities. There are flashes of singing brilliance in this album, which is her first solo album to hit CD. However, she really did not hit her stride until her following two albums (the third album, on Fantasy Records, was astonishingly and unbelieveably good). This is a good CD to purchase if you enjoyed the singles and/or want to trace her evolution and development as an artist and performer. Otherwise, be patient and wait for her Fantasy Records album to eventually hit CD."
Track Listings (10) - Disc #1