Otis Blue/Otis Redding Sings Soul Review: Raw, Reaching, Unforgettable Soul
9.5/10 — Otis Redding - Otis Blue/Otis Redding Sings Soul (1965)
Pros
- Redding's passionate vocals
- Stax's tight house band
- 'I've Been Loving You Too Long'
Cons
- A few rough edges
- Novelty covers
Otis Blue was recorded at Stax in Memphis in about 24 hours, with Booker T. & the M.G.’s and the Memphis Horns. It includes three Sam Cooke covers, recorded after Cooke’s death.
What works
‘I’ve Been Loving You Too Long’ is a slow-burn masterpiece, ‘Respect’ is Redding’s own version of the song Aretha would later make famous, and ‘A Change Is Gonna Come’ is moving. Redding’s voice is raw and soulful.
Where it falters
The album’s quick recording shows in a few rough edges, and covers like ‘Satisfaction’ are more novelty than revelation.
Verdict
A deep, thrilling soul record.
