Search - Little Richard :: Little Richard Is Back

Classy reissue

Phil S. | USA | 02/01/2007

(4 out of 5 stars)

"For the R. Penniman Collector with an eye and ear for something different, well, it's the same old, same old recycles, but in a beautiful reproduction, with (you're not gonna believe it) printed lyrics! (For those who have never heard the second bonus track I Don't Know What You've Got at 4:44 please listen the first few times without reading the words - it's a magnificent example of Soul at it's best). It's still amazing, 42 years later, that the word "Stereo" is found on the front cover - the only thing in stereo here are the bonus cuts.

For the new fan, this is a great place to start - or should I say follow-up on the 1955-57 Specialty sides. The raspy tenor gives way to a smoky baritone (which goes up about four octaves, musicians correct me if I'm wrong). And, interestingly, enough, the piano is more impressive on these '64 cuts! Check out Lawdy Miss Clawdy!

All fans should know that this album, despite obvious technical and artistic [the arrangements and occasional fluffs] flaws, covers many genres, and is a fine example of the incredible range and power of a still-neglected genius."