The third
release in RPM Records’ acclaimed reissue series is Jackie’s 1968 concept album
PL
WG: This song really sets the tone
for the ensuing album. It has a laid-back hippie vibe that makes me nostalgic
for a place and time I never got to experience. Jackie sings her lyrics with
loads of conviction. Sounds like it was recorded live in one take - and they
nailed it.
Sunshine of your love
PL: A musicians’ jam on the Cream classic – it’s a gas. Obviously
done in one take – if there had been a second take I might have asked the
guitarist to tune down by a quarter of a tone. How to turn
British prog rock into inspirational gospel.
WG: This would be sacrilege if it
weren't so good. Jackie acts as a real team player here, letting the band and
the backup singers share in the glory. They must have worked up a real sweat
during this one.
PL
WG: I like the arrangement on this
one - the way the instruments and singers layer on gradually. Seemingly simple, sweet lyrics, but with a question mark. I
understand Ray Trainer recorded a version himself; I'd like to hear that one
sometime.
She’s my best friend
PL: Another soul groove, and a song about friendship, pushing all those
1968 buttons. Jackie’s voice is so warm on these songs, Bill, at the peak of
her powers – which she seems never to have left!
WG: This was always one of my
favorite songs on the album. A relatable lyric, and
the band gets into a great groove. You can hear Jackie having a blast singing
along.
I got my reason
PL: A Barry White composition. Structurally very like “The weight” which
comes later on the album. Churchy harmonies and a strong
message. And I think Barry might have also been listening to the lyrics
of Jimmy Ruffin’s “What becomes of the broken hearted.” Mmm mmm.
WG: Yes, the intro is very similar
to The Weight. This is another one of my favorites. I love the message, and Dr.
John's piano and the singers really cook.
Holly would
PL: This is a standout song, a song about a life, about a generation. Her performance
lets the emotion shine through. Jackie, please sing this one when you come to
WG: I always liked this song
musically, but felt the lyric was a little dated (I was born about the time
this album was released). But I'm listening with new ears on this reissue, and
while it definitely is a creation of a certain era, the senitment
is lovely. And the track truly is beautiful.
You’ve really got a hold on me
PL: Smokey Robinson’s song has always been a favourite
of mine. This is a brisk cover, and those effortless harmonies are golden.
WG: Effortless? Sounds like they're
working pretty hard to me, but in a good way! This was never a favorite song of
mine, either by Smokey Robinson or the Beatles. But Jackie's version is my
favorite. Loads of energy and soul.
The weight
PL: Well I heard The Band’s version of this first, all those years
ago, and was surprised that Jackie had chosen to record it, but all the worries
melted away when I heard it. There is a load of individuality in this version,
and Jackie puts her all into it. Well done
WG: It should have been a bigger hit
than it was. This is a glorious track. Different from the
Band's version, but just as good. A classic
performance of a classic song. And remember, Jackie covered this the
same year it was originally released. How's that for hip?! My one regret…Jackie
cut one verse.
Bitter honey
PL: Jackie’s in control here, her personality moving this song along,
her voice sexy and in command. A pleasure to listen to.
WG: This may be my favorite track on
the album. I can't help but dance along. Pure pop and pure
fun. Gives my chills of joy. Should
have been a massive hit.
Come and stay with me
PL: So subtle, so warm. A lovely song, done by Jackie in
her own special way. Full marks too for the unintrusive but intricate accompaniment. Another one
for the
WG: Yes, this would be great to hear
in concert. Marianne Faithfull stills performs this
song. A heartfelt lyric, and Jackie adds just a little
gospel to this folk ballad. I always liked the stereo separation of the guitar
and organ; you can listen to just one or the other accompaniment if you like.
PL
WG: This is my other favorite song
on the album. This is Jackie's tribute to her adopted city, and it drips with
sincerity. I especially love the double-tracked vocal coda. I lived in LA for
years and this deserves a place next to Randy Newman's I Love LA as unofficial
city anthem.
Too close
PL: Jackie doesn’t emote the blues often enough. When she does it’s
stunning. Just listen to this.
WG: Pure gospel. Jackie has never
sounded as emotionally raw as on this track. A real vocal
tour-de-force without histrionics. Sure to induce chills in all but the
most coldblooded of listeners. I saw Stevie Wonder cover this a few years ago on TV. How's that
for a testament?!
Bonus
Tracks:
Trust in me
PL: A little bit of soul. A song you might imagine Percy Sledge
singing. Just let it wash over you.
WG: This is one of my absolute
favorite Jackie records of all time. The arrangement is perfection, as is
Jackie's vocal. This could be a hit today as is -
it sounds totally contemporary. Calling Joss Stone...
What is this
PL: Uptempo soul groove.
Jackie can do this as well as anyone. On the 45, which I’ve had for years, the
sound is a little muddy. Nice to hear it clarified, now.
WG: Not quite as strong as the last
tune, but a successful sweaty soul workout. I love that little bit o' James
Brown on the break.
Happy go lucky girl
PL: This sound says
WG: I wouldn't be surprised if this
turned out to be written by Jackie herself. It sounds like a pop song turned into R&B. Could have been the theme song
to a swingin' 60s TV show. Innocent
fun.
Ooh you did it again
PL: And this could be a bit of Motown. Not a substantial song but a
great combination of soul backing and Jackie’s huskiest voice.
WG: These two songs are outtakes
from the Trust Me single. I like them both, but the right songs were definitely
chosen for release. Jackie wrings as much out of this song as she can. The
result is light but infectious.
Effervescent blue
PL: And now we’re in Bacharach territory, although actually Jackie wrote
this complex and ethereal song. Stuck on the back of a 45 for years, with
proper digital sound it’s true worth shines through. So many rhythm changes,
definitely not one for the dance floor!
WG: This song is uncategorizable.
Is it pop? Jazz? Some sort of bossa
nova? Whatever it is, it is unique and heavenly. Jackie was definitely paying
attention during those Bacharach sessions.
The Greener Side
PL: One of Jackie’s demos, and I’d only ever
heard Johnny Walsh’s decent cover version before. Lots of good things here, and you just wish there had been a completed studio
version. Still nice though.
WG: Groovy is the first word that
comes to my mind. I envision love beads and fringe jackets in
Children and flowers
PL: Lovely melody, very personal delivery. Nothing more
to say. Bill, which do you think is the best version of this?
WG: Well, now I think Jackie's is
the best version. Her unadorned version brings more depth to the lyrics than I
hear in the cover versions. Of course, the Critters' version is great, and I
also like the Bachelors' countryish rendition.
Put a little love in your heart
PL: Jackie’s favourite song, her liner
notes tell us. It never fails.
WG: It's interesting that this song
has found new life as a gospel standard. But there ain't
nothing like the real thing.