Mellow Etta Is Still Satisfying

Etta James has rocked harder and longer than any other blues diva. That she has decided to take a rest with "All the Way" is understandable and the results are still somewhat satisfying. "I Believe I Can Fly" is pure inspiration - Etta Style. We can forgive the dull "Calling You" (with the annoying cell phone), but she fails to make "Somewhere" her own - and that's a disappointment. The song simply goes nowhere. But, James does deliver an understated and souful version of "Imagine". "What's Going On" is as smooth as silk. The highlight of the album, however, is "Purple Rain". Who else but Etta James could cover a Prince classic? She thunders her way through it with a hot intensity reminding the listener of the wonders of this ageless treasure of a voice. So, it's not a perfect album, it's still Etta James!

I Agree with Mr. Horowitz

One look at Etta James on the cover and one listen to the first track on the c.d., which is the title track, and you will marvel. Ms. James has been singing professionally for over 50 years. And she's been around an awful long time since "At Last." Yet, she looks and sounds like someone half her age. She has a clear, strong voice, and she delivers "All the Way" as convincingly and as soulfully as anyone this side of Sinatra who ever sang the song.

Etta James is All The Way WONDERFUL !

I have loved Etta James for decades - indeed she is my favorite singer of all. I am always excited by any new release from the great Ms James and I have rarely been disappointed. This time I was a little nervous when I saw the song list. Etta James doing "Purple Rain"? I feared this might be a mis-step. But I should know to have faith in my girl 'cause she acquits herself magnificently on this album. "Purple Rain" is in fact one of the highlights for me - along with her wondrous version of "All the Way" and terrific, sensitive readings of "Holding Back the Years", "Believe I Can Fly", "Calling You" and more. Etta's interpretation of "It's a Man's World" is nothing short of brilliant. And Etta's blues and soul drenched rendition of "Strung Out" shows that the most soulful singer ever has still got it. YOU GO GIRL !!!