Mose Allison I've Been Doin' Some Thinkin' CD

Pianist/vocalist Mose Allison has made a name for himself with his unique blend of jazz and blues, which serves as an ideal backdrop for his witty lyrics and charmingly mellow voice. I'VE BEEN DOIN' SOME THINKIN' (1968) features 11 original tunes and a cover of the traditional song, "You Are My Sunshine," which Allison reworks with complex, jazzy chords. Other songs here, such as "City Home" and "Everybody Cryin' Mercy," are very blues oriented. The latter was popularized by Bonnie Raitt in a gritty rendition, though Allison's original version, as heard here, is quite smooth and laid-back. On this tune, Allison croons about the contradictions of humanity and the duplicity of both individuals and nations. Many of the lyrics on this album discuss love and relationships in ways that are quite compelling, and often downright funny. For example, "Your Molecular Structure" uses molecules as a metaphor for describing a pretty woman. This is Allison at his best.

Full Title - Reggae On The River, The 10th Anniversary. Recorded live at the 10th anniversary of Reggae on the River one of the largest reggae festivals in the U.S. This 2CD set features some of the all-time best-known names in reggae music, including Jimmy Cliff, Wailing Souls, Third World, Lucky Dude, Baaba Maal, Judy Mowatt, Angelique Kidjo. Attractive and colorful CD slim line package includes over 20 songs. 2002.

Originally released on Atlantic (1511). Includes liner notes by Herb Wong.

Personnel: Mose Allison (vocals, piano); Red Mitchell (bass); Bill Goodwin (drums).