Search - Johnnie Ray :: High Drama: Real Johnnie Ray

The other side of the great johnnie ray

patricia m dryburgh | 01/06/2000

(5 out of 5 stars)

"If you thought that Johnnie Ray was just a pop star from the late forties to the early fifties, listen to this collection. These are bluesy, soulful tracks that will blow you away! Johnnie's versatility and passion are showcased, with "I Want To Be Loved","Paths of Paridise and, particularly, "Lotus Blossom", an old blues number that he gives his own delivery which is totally unique. There is also a live version of "Such A Night" that, if you are used to Elvis's version, you may not be aware that the original magic was created by Johnnie Ray first. This is my favourite CD by Johnnie and I recommend it to everyone, especially blues fans who may not be aware of this side of the late, great, Mr. Ray."

Fascinating and weird...

Allen Bardin | Columbia, SC United States | 04/24/2002

(4 out of 5 stars)

"... just like the man himself! A really great overview of the enigmatic Mr. Ray, with more emphasis on his bluesy side.
I wish he had always recorded with the tight little R&B bands that he started out with, and not the drecky backgrounds Mitch Miller insisted on. Great tracks with the Ellington band and the under-appreciated Ray Ellis, featuring some stellar jazzmen."