The Ray Charles songbook has taken a bit of a hammering since his death in 2004, as his own library has been re-explored and various tributes paid.
Although I still find Willie Nelson an acquired taste, the combination (again) with Wynton Marsalis and the sparkle of Norah Jones makes this set
interesting. Maybe not compelling, but solid fare at the least.
For me, it's Norah Jones' contribution that really lifts the music here, along with a stunning band at the top of their game.
In fact, they sound as if they could've stepped off Ray's bandstand, such is their empathy with his trademark snappy performance. Marsalis stars on trumpet, along with Dan Himmer on piano, Walter Blanding on tenor sax, Carlos Henriquez on bass, Ali Jackson on drums, and brilliant harmonica contributions from Mickey Raphael.
The track listing is familiar Ray Charles territory: Cryin Time, Busted, Hit the Road Jack, Unchain My Heart and more. Although not an essential addition to your collection, Norah Jones' performance is evidence of her growth as an artist. Confident and self-assured compared to some of her earlier live work, she stands out, shading Wynton and Willie, at least vocally.
