Ray Charles - Shake Your Tailfeather

Review by Liesbeth

Shake Your Tailfeather, the album by Ray Charles, is a masterpiece of soulful rhythm and blues. Released in 1965, the album showcases Charles' incredible talent as a musician, singer, and bandleader. From the first note to the last, Shake Your Tailfeather is a toe-tapping, head-bobbing celebration of the joy of music.

The title track, "Shake Your Tailfeather," is a rollicking, danceable tune that sets the tone for the album. Charles' gravelly voice is perfectly suited to the upbeat tempo and catchy lyrics, and the horn section adds an extra layer of energy to the already lively song. "Let's Go Get Stoned" is another standout track, with Charles' soulful vocals and the band's tight groove creating a perfect backdrop for the song's lyrics about indulging in a little recreational activity.

But Shake Your Tailfeather isn't just about partying and having a good time. Charles shows his range as an artist with the hauntingly beautiful "I Believe to My Soul." The slow, mournful melody is enhanced by Charles' soulful vocals and the sparse instrumentation, creating a powerful emotional impact.

Summary by Liesbeth

Shake Your Tailfeather is a must-have for any fan of soulful, bluesy music. Ray Charles' talent as a musician and bandleader shines through on every track, and the album is a testament to the enduring power of rhythm and blues.