Although it sounds like it was recorded in one take at a late-night, gin-fueled jam session at a funky roadhouse, The Henry Gray/ Bob Corritore Sessions Vol. 1 is actually a compilation of 19 years worth of the two artists’ collaborations. We’re not told when each cut was recorded, but age doesn’t seem to make any difference. Gray sounds strong and energized on every cut.
He’s fully committed to the business at hand on “Let’s Get High,” so much so that you believe he may have actually been sampling some of the gin he’s talking about using for fuel for the evening’s festivities.
Fats Domino’s “I’m in Love Again” bounces along jauntily. Gray’s panther screams punctuate Corritore’s mouth harp, slicing up the melody and dribbling pieces of it over top of Doug James’s baritone sax.
Robert Johnson’s “Ramblin’ on My Mind” has Gray ramblin’ quite a bit faster than Johnson’s original. This version is more of a joyous proclamation than a lament.
From the sound of things, it’s hard to believe that Gray is 90 years old. Every cut here just jumps out at you. Gray’s vocals and piano are vibrant and powerful throughout. It’s a real pleasure to listen to a man who obviously enjoys his work so much and is willing to share that exuberance and joy with his listeners.
Grant Britt
