aaamusic | On 18, Mar 2014

“The Man with the Golden Voice” is how the BBC describes Sheffield’s Paul Carrack. As an English singer, songwriter and musician he’s had four decades in the music business, frequently recording as a solo artist. He’s also toured recently in the USA and Europe with Eric Clapton‘s band.

His latest album Rain Or Shine is released on 24^th February, 2014 on Carrack UK. Five new compositions have been added to five covers of classic songs and the result is a well balanced mix. The album title was chosen to reflects Paul’s philosophy that people should try to succeed regardless of circumstances.

There are covers of Ray Charles‘ ‘Hard Times’ ,‘Come Rain Or Come Shine’ and the country 60s Motown number ‘You Don’t Know Me’. The ballad ‘I’m Losing You’ , by Brenda Lee, is sensitive and moving. The sad and melancholic‘ If Loving You Is Wrong (I Don’t Wanna Be Right)’ ,about an adulterous love affair, is slow burning and stylish. Originally composed by Stax Records songwriters Homer Banks, Carl Hampton and Raymond Jackson, this song has been covered by numerous artists, but is a particularly fine version here.

Rain Or Shine  is a quality album which achieves high standards. Paul has a husky, mature and casual voice on songs that feel crisp, light and relaxed. The addition of strings and horns by professional arranger Richard Niles has helped enhance this well written and timeless blues and soul.

★★★★★

Anthony Weightman