This 3CD set combines Ray Charles’ Paris concerts in autumn 1961 and spring 1962, and captures his audiences’ discovery of ‘The Genius’, a genuine phenomenon in Sixties’ French society. This is Ray Charles at the summit of his art, with music at the borders of blues, soul and rhythm & blues. These astounding versions of his greatest hits, including “What I’d Say”, “Georgia on my Mind”, “Hit the Road, Jack” and “Unchain my Heart”, and the exciting ‘live’ atmosphere, make this set indispensable as a fascinating illustration of an artist who, only ten years after his death, remains one of the most brilliant icons of 20th century music. Patrick FReMEAUX
