Strong Choices Throughout
5
By Tracer FGI
Now that I've listened all the way through a few times, what stands out is (or so it appears to me) Ms. James's restraint. I know from past experience (her live Nina Simone covers, and her outstanding work with Postmodern Jukebox) that she can really belt it when she wants to, and here? She settles back, mostly takes it easy, avoids cutting loose. It's as if she said, "Let's let the songs speak for themselves. I'm here, I'll provide vocals and interpretation, but it in no way am I going to put myself front and center." That was such a wise decision, and unusually humble for a singer––especially one whose pipes are itching to shine. And let's face it, there are some tough songs to cover here, especially "Rocky Raccoon" (so very Paul) and "Revolution 1." James and her collaborators do justice to everything. "I Will" is so gorgeous, and she gets the humor on tunes like "Bungalow Bill." (What made the Beatles truly great? Humor and wit.) I look forward to whatever Ms. James tackles next.