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analysis w/e 14.5.11 |
DVDs out 9.5.11 |
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@ DVDfever Youtube |
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May 11 2011 
DVDfever co uk
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Born Betty Haskins in Michigan 1946, Bettye LaVette’s recognition as a great Soul singer is finally being recognised, at the tender age of 61. She’s been knocking around the studio scene since 16, when she recorded a single My Man – He’s A Lovin’ Man, which became a national hit in America, leading to tours with Clyde McPhatter, Ben.E.King, Barbara Lynn and up-and-coming Otis Redding. She was even signed to Motown in 1982, filling the gap by departing Diana Ross, but a modest hit failed to bring her attention, and her career languished. Some might say she’s been the Tina Turner in waiting, and there are undeniable vocal comparisons. The Detroit singer, now songwriter too, has pulled off a truly mesmering album, backed by alt country rockers Drive-By Truckers. The production is top draw, by DBT and LaVette. Here, not only does she do some impressive Soul, but tackles rasping rhythm and blues – You Don’t Know Me At All, and a touch of country – Somebody Pick Up My Pieces. There’s also some old school Soul balladeering such as the emotively driven and heartfelt Choices.
Arguably, her finest vocal performance appears on the smouldering rock ballad Jealousy, with the DBT’s doing a sublime steady backup, allowing LaVette to shine and emanate her full vocal control. They Call It Love is right out of Turner’s songbook, though the country shimmer defines it as LaVette’s gig. Before The Money Came, an undoubtedly a reflective song, shows her adamant side, where she claims to have never sold-out, and wait has been worth it. The principle feature, however good the songs are and band is, it’s always her vocal dexterity, which never falters, and might yet make her legend.
Weblinks: bettyelavette.com / anti.com
The full list of tracks included are :
As of April 2009, Blu-rays and DVDs reviewed by the editor are watched on a Panasonic TH-37PX80B 37" Plasma TV with a Sony BDP-1500 Blu-ray player and played through a Yamaha DSP-AX820 amplifier. PC games reviewed by the editor are on:
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Review & concert pics copyright © Elly Roberts, 2004-2010.
