Ray Charles

Modern Sounds In Country And Western Music Volume 2

Tangerine, 2024

9/10

Listen to Modern Sounds In Country And Western Music Volume 2

The 2nd installment of Ray Charles’ shift into country music ideas, the 12 tracks originally released in 1962 entail all covers delivered via his inimitable voice and piano playing.

The soulful and soaring “You Are My Sunshine” begins the record with help from the Raelets, where Margie Hendrix’s expressive pipes won’t go unnoticed, and “No Letter Today” follows with crisp drums and heartfelt singing in the hazy delivery.

Moving closer to the middle, “Midnight” is a soft moment of rich intimacy thanks to the well timed brass, while “Your Cheatin’ Heart” uses glowing strings mature and keys amid Charles’ emotive pipes.

Near the end, the glorious strings return for the timeless appeal of “Making Believe”, and “Hang Your Head In Shame” exits with light drums, meticulous strings and Charles’ cozy singing.

Half of the album features the Jack Halloran Singers, and this effort proved to be just as successful as the first volume, which is easy to see why: Charles’ distinct version of Country and Western sounds was well received then, just as it is now.

Travels well with: Ray Charles- Country And Western Meets Rhythm And Blues; Ray Charles- Modern Sounds In Country And Western Music