CASTLE MUSIC

Ben E King - The Beginning of it all

Released on 16 September 2002

I must admit that I had forgotten that Ben E King had recorded this album in the early 70's after his initial Atlantic period and before the second when he re-emerged with the likes of Supernatural thing. To be honest I may not have even known! I was therefore looking forward to this album as initially I was confused by the title - what beginning? , plus I was unfamiliar with the tracks. Sadly I have to report that, aside from interest value, it is not a good album and that there is little on there that excites me. The musicianship or production sound dated to me, more late 60's and more pop or rock orientated, the songs whilst delivered well do not hit with me.

This album was recorded on the Mandala label under the auspices of Bob Gallo. It includes several own compositions. 'Travellin Woman' was apparently fairly well critically acclaimed, 'The beginning of it all' the title track (chosen for the title and not because it's the best track I would suggest) 'All of your tomorrows' - very bluesy and 'She does it right' - good Southern Soul are quite nice slow numbers. 'White Moon' however show's King presumably going through a Van Morrison phase.

There some interesting covers, not obvious choices I suppose - Elton John and Bernie Taupin's 'Take me to the Pilot', Van Morrison's 'Into the mystic' and Delaney & Bonnie's 'Only you and I know' which reminds me of 'Let your love flow' for some reason plus a terrible break, amateur backing singers and twangy guitar - need I say more.

'Love is gonna get you' is a fast paced number.

The Gallo penned 'I guess it's goodbye' is for me the best track, well suited to Ben E's voice which is very deep by this time (almost Clarence Carter at times), the harmonies blend better on this track pleading over the lead. 'Love is' an unknown penned song, almost a beat ballad comes close.

There is a 40 minite long 'Audio Biography', an interview with Richard Robinson which was released on a promo album on Mandala. It is very interesting and includes snippets from earlier material and includes some good historical perspectives and some insight into the Mandala period and the album featured here. The only problem I have with it is that one tends to listen to this type of thing once, and that's it.