The Rhythm And The Blues

Jimmy Barnes

Liberation, 2009

http://www.jimmybarnes.com

REVIEW BY: Mark Millan

ORIGINALLY PUBLISHED: 01/17/2010

As one of Australia’s most loved singers, Jimmy Barnes (born in Scotland), has forged a successful solo career after the band he fronted, Cold Chisel, parted company in the mid ‘80s. His initial success came courtesy of a couple of AOR albums recorded in the US that spawned a few big hits (mainly power ballads) back in the land of Oz. The next decade, though, would see him have his biggest success with an R&B covers album, Soul Deep, released in 1991. Soul Deeper followed in 2000 – fast-forward nine years, and The Rhythm And The Blues completes a trilogy of sorts for Mr. Barnes.

Expertly produced by Don Gehman, this wonderfully original, fiery album showcases Barnes and his band covering some of the greatest songs of all time. Barnes’ unique singing voice (both gruff and banshee-like in places) has matured beautifully over the years, and it really sits well with the material on offer here. There are no weak spots, and the most pleasing thing is that they made every one of these songs work for Jimmy and that ain’t an easy thing to do.my_heart_sings_the_harmony_web_ad_alt_250

Opener “Red Hot” is just that and is quickly followed by “That’s Right,” which together offer a perfect introduction to what lies within this great set of songs. The late, great Ray Charles is honoured with the classic “Hallelujah (I Love Her So),” a song that Barnes nails with ridiculous ease. “That’s How It Is (When You’re In Love),” originally recorded by the oft-forgotten Otis Clay, is here and it sounds as vibrant and heartfelt as ever. 

A personal favorite of mine, Little Richard is covered with a stellar version of “Keep A Knocking” that is a definite highlight. Awesome readings of “Reconsider Me,” “Shake, Rattle & Roll,” and “Rockin’ Pneumonia” keep the momentum flowing wildly before Barnes and Co. take on some of the more challenging numbers here.  The first being the Ike and Tina Turner classic “A Fool In Love,” which is, of course, the song that made them stars way back in 1960. Barnes gives it a more subtle reading – if that’s possible, as even he can’t out-shriek Tina. It shouldn’t work but it does; in fact, it’s the only worthy cover I’ve ever heard of that song.

“You Can’t Judge A Book” and Stevie Wonder’s “I Was Made To Love Her” are delivered with resounding conviction and enthusiasm by the band, something that is prevalent throughout the entire record. The Coasters’ “Young Blood” swaggers along nicely before a gorgeous rendition of “My Baby Just Cares For Me” closes out the album in style. 

The Rhythm And The Blues is one of Jimmy Barnes’ most pleasing efforts for some time, and his decision not to monkey with these classic songs in any way makes this album all the more enjoyable.

Rating: A-

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