Review

Etta James: The Dreamer (Decca)

Throughout a truly trailblazing career Etta James has been unreservedly the queen of rhythm & blues. A musical tour de force for well over 50 years, from her early days with Chess records through to her well earned accolades that include six Grammy awards, two Hall Of Fame Awards and the highly prestigious Lifetime Achievements Award. So it's with regret that this is to be her final output before putting her feet up and enjoying her retirement.

"The Dreamer" is a worthy ending too and Ettta sounds fantastic with this southern soul stew of a jamboree. Ironically she's picked traditional male sung vocals and boy she turns them on their head! Especially the sexually charged old Otis Redding Classic "Champagne & Wine." Phew! Etta is still getting jiggy and enjoying it too!! "The Dreamer" has a BB King feel to it, reminiscent of "The Thrill Has Gone," but with some delicious acoustic slide guitar. In fact there's a great Cropperesque guitar all over this album and some greasy hammond too - especially on the rock driven soul of "Welcome To The Jungle."

Etta has produced a stunning and eclectic slice of soul here and is going out on an all time high! Ladies and gentlemen there's only one Etta James, so be touched by the magic one last time!

For the full review for Etta James' album "The Dreamer" see Blues & Soul Winter 2011/12 printed issue - click below to get your issue.
Words Emrys Baird