Charles Brown: Since I Fell For You

With songs like the title cut, “Driftin’,” “Go Away Little Girl” and “To You My Love,” distinctively sung by the late Charles Brown, most people already have an inkling of what this album sounds like. Perhaps, the most unusual aspect of the disc is that Brown is heard here exclusively on organ with no piano. The combo with guitarist Roy Coleman, tenor saxophonist Freddie Simon and drummer Charles Brady, plus Brown’s sparse organ, simply accompanies his powdery vocals. The few solos are left to the tenor and guitar, short offerings that tend to be somewhat predictable. There are also several questionable selections including a cha cha version of “Our Day Will Come.” Of course, Brown’s unique phrasing and sense of style are, as always, in evidence. His voice is one of the most recognizable in modern music. Brown devotees naturally and justifiably will want the disc simply for more from their hero. Others who have admired Brown as a pianist and great blues artist have many other choices.

Originally Published June 1, 2000