Etta James

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By 1973, everyone should know exactly what they're getting with her - growling, soulful vocals that still retain a soft touch when necessary in addition to the random funk stormer. Etta James begins with "All the Way Down", a quintessentially Chicagoan take on a blacksploitation score replete with orchestral touches and trilling flutes (and of course, brassy trumpet phrases). James undoubtedly puts her own unique spin on ghetto life (and hard core drug experimentation), matching the tensions found in this funky arrangement. Side A rounds out with another saucy, funky entry, "Only a Fool", and a languid ballad in "Down so Low". Side 2 opens with two quality songs from that ubiquitous soul songwriter - Randy Newman. "Leave Your Hat On" features a 70s instrumental staple, the "waka-chika" guitar part (What? I play the saxophone, I don't know what that effect is called... it sounds like a guitar with a jews harp jammed under the strings). James then tackles one of Newman's best known compositions - "Sail Away", James is an inventive interpreter and doesn't do either of these songs a disservice. Show more