Franklin, Aretha - Lady Soul - 1968

[Roland Bru]

Aretha Franklin is somewhat overweight, probably singing in Vegas if she's not marrying or divorcing or suing someone. Or she's singing "Respect" in any Blues Brothers movie. She looks like a darker skinned version of Elizabeth Taylor and ruined her reputation in, albeit in a different field of art, the same way. Why can't people quit (or die) at their peak? Well, I won't go into that, but I would like to call your attention to one of her peaks, Lady Soul. As I write this review, Jerry Wexler, the album's producer has just died. This album may be considered one of his milestones as well: the choice of songs is great, musicanship excellent, but it's definitely Aretha's voice that shines on this album.

I would not consider this a 'soul album' by the way. The songs range from gospel (People get ready), to soul (Niki Hoeky) to blues (Good to me as I am to you, Clapton guitar solo). I would call this rhythm and blues. Contains classic songs such as Chain of fools, (You make me feel like a) natural woman and Groovin' in mostly definitive versions.