2015 collection, After a brief break, Kent Records’ series of CDs devoted to the music that came out of Fame Studios in the ‘60s and ‘70s resumes with this overview of the recordings cut there by artists who recorded for Chicago's Chess Records. After leasing several masters from Fame's Rick Hall in the mid-60s, Chess started to send their own artists to Muscle Shoals. In 1967 and 1968 some of the best records the company issued were recorded at Fame, including several that revitalized the career of their flagship female artist, Etta James. "Reaching Out" features at least one recording from every Chess-signed act who recorded at Fame, a good many of which have never been on CD before (including unissued goodies from Maurice & Mac and Mitty Collier). The booklet features several previously unseen photos taken at Fame, as well as in-depth notes and a host of shots of original 45s and album covers.
D**D
Powerful '60s Southern Soul!
For fans of 1960s Southern soul music, getting this CD should be a no-brainer, for three main reasons: these artists recorded for the mighty Chess Records label; the songs were recorded at the legendary Fame Studios; this reissue is from the always excellent Kent Records. Say no more, right?These recordings from 1967 to 1969 feature both popular singers that recorded for Chess, and plenty of more obscure artists, ones that might not have been household names but nevertheless delivered some potent soul stew. Listening to these songs makes my wonder why singers like Laura Lee and Mitty Collier weren't much bigger names. Passionate singing and quality songs to boot. From the first track to the last one, this is absolutely stunning stuff.The CD comes with a 16-page booklet that includes an informative essay about these recordings and Fame studios written by album compiler Tony Rounce. Plenty of cool vintage photos and reproductions of some of the original single labels too. The track listings include song times, songwriting credits, and the original recording dates (with the exception of the 3 previously unreleased tracks). Another very welcome --- and faithfully compiled --- batch of soul-stirring soul music from the fine folks at Kent.
F**N
Five Stars
IF YOU HAVEN'T STARTED TO EXPLORE THE FAME CATALOG, IT'S TIME.
C**E
Should I tell the truth???
If I say that this is brilliant from start to finish then folk might buy up the few remaining copies and I want them as gifts or spares for myself. This is one of those CDs that requires having a spare in case the original gets lost or damaged. I love Maurice & Mac’s version of You Left The Water Running & wanted to find other stuff by them - and I got all of this. Continues to show that Kent compilations are what is needed. I started off by buying 3 LPs at a go when I was in my early 20s; always bought blind: look at the Ace catalogue, look at album titles, quirky track names, interesting names for singers & find out what got delivered to my local record shop. Still prefer to buy blind, although it is a little harder these days. But this one brings back old feelings of surprise & pleasure.
Ｍ**Ｔ
珠玉のChessのFame録音
大好きなローラ・リーから始まるこのアルバム。まったりと落ち着いて楽しめます。モーリス＆マックなど渋いアーティストが勢ぞろいしています。バーボン片手に楽しめますね。
M**R
Classic R&B At Its Best.
A great album , some relay great performance from all concerned. Etta James on top form. A lot of good soul music from familiar names and that are new to me. Would recommend to any one who has likely for classic R&B soul music. 5 stars.
N**
Reaching out great soul
Just to hear charles charmers on sax its worth every penny . Heard it on sound of the sixtys just had to get it etta james and the rest is a bonus .
C**B
Chesstastic
Having visited the hallowed Studio in Muscle Shoals this is a great keepsake.
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