"Soul music" -- an outdated '60s label? Not if
Nona Hendryx,
Billy Vera, and a whole bunch of gifted backup singers and musicians have anything to say about it. Recorded as part of Shanachie's Soul of Rhythm & Blues series and with 50% of the royalties going to support the Rhythm and Blues Foundation, this disc has purpose, message, and artistry on its side. Among the ten tracks are retakes of classics like
Marvin Gaye's "Ain't That Peculiar,"
Solomon Burke's "Got to Get You Off My Mind," and The Soul Sisters' "I Can't Stand It"; new compositions from both
Vera and
Hendryx; and a remake of
Vera's 1967 hit (with
Judy Clay), "Storybook Children." Everyone deserves kudos, but
Hendryx shines brightest. She kicks off the disc with a sizzling version of
The Isley's "It's Your Thing," and turns in a heartbreakingly beautiful performance on
Ashford And Simpson's "Didn't You Know You'd Have to Cry Sometime." ~ Christine Ohlman, Roundup Newsletter