Lee Michaels - Recital 1968

After a somewhat uneven debut album, Lee Michaels found his footing on this record. Michaels, a keen student of R&B as well as classical music, was obviously able to wrangle a bit more artistic control at A&M, and it shows. Overdubs of piano, harpsichord, and organ by Michaels created a wonderful sonic depth, and along with John Barbata's solid drumming, the result is staggering. Michaels was not exactly a singer/songwriter, but on this record, songs such as "Blind" and "Fell in Love Today" find a real voice for his R&B leanings. The record also contains the fabulous single "If I Lose You," which should have been a Top 40 hit. In the end, Recital is a very funky pop album that was ahead of its time. AMG.

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