Customer Reviews

Alton & Hortense Ellis

5 star:		(4)
4 star:		(0)
3 star:		(0)
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1 star:		(0)

 

 

This CD, to the best of my knowledge, was never a proper LP. Rather, it is a collection of singles. They are either duets or solo performances, from sometime in the mid to late-60's, the peak of the rock steady period (which was basically Jamaican interpretations of the Detroit and Memphis R&B scenes).

To the unacquainted: Alton, at this stage in his career, was the Jamaican Marvin Gaye and on these performances espescially, the subtle nuances (use of breath sounds, vibrato, etc.) of his voice are without fault. He gives the impression that he can bend and shape a tone at will. Now, on the other hand, Hortense displays an Astrud Gilberto-esque innocence. It's as though she's singing, not as a professional but, as a result of having actually lived the tribulations behind these love songs.

Amazing productiuon and engineering. Tactful and subtle musicianship. And other than the altered "Breakfast in Bed" (a racy little tune that, as the metaphors reveal themselves, makes one wonder how it actually recieved airplay), none of the songs have been remixed or dubbed over. These are classic rock steady performences that rival America's best and most soulful moments. I've got over a thousand records and this ranks among my favorites. If you've got friends that can't get past the (horribly misinterpreted) hippie stigma of reggae, this is the record that will win them over!

I can't add much to the excellent review given by the prior writers (kudos for that review- excellent!!! I'm glad there are other Ellis fans out there), so I will only add what I can to help strengthen their review.

This collection was not a proper lp at any point, though it should have been. The songs are first rate examples of Ellis' rocksteady power. "Willow Tree" was a hit for him in late '66, and "People Make the World Go Round" was also a minor hit; so my guess would be that these songs were recorded around the late summer to fall of '66 (remember, technology was basic then- many lps were recorded live in the studio, as overdubbing was not yet common, especially in Jamaica- until King Tubby and Scratch got their paws on such machinery).

As for "Breakfast In Bed," it is no worse than the Heptones' banned clasic "Fattie Fattie" though the point is well taken as to how it got radio play..who knows when it comes to censorship?

As always, Ellis showcases his soulful voice to great effect on this collection, and his powers were rarely sharper. This lp, along with any others that showcase his Studio One output ("Sunday Coming," "Sings Rock and Soul") come very highly recommended. Delicious.

I bought this LP some years back and has filled our home with its feel over and over again. A collection of singles we can never get tired of.
Unlike her brother Alton, Hortense had a short singing career. Apparently, she married and, unfortunately to the music world, retired to the home life. On this CD we can enjoy her tone and cadence, which, for whoever that hasn't experienced it, should. Pure complete magic!

Alton just died at the age of 74. I once told a friend, a big fan of Bob Marley but also Motown and American R&B, that Alton Ellis is the greatest soul singer of all time. He was incredulous. But he hadn't ever heard him before.
First of all, Sam Cooke died at 32 (I would give him second place), Otis Redding at 27, and Marvin Gaye in his early 30s. Smokey Robinson I would put in the running too.
Alton not only had more years to improve his body of work than his short-lived American competition, he also, like Bob Marley, matured and wrote some of his greatest songs later in life.
Unfortunately he never reached the international heights of recognition he deserved. Probably he is best known for Sean Paul's version of his "I'm Still in Love with You".
Alton was no Rude Boy, slacker or dance hall poseur. Like Bob Marley, his songs consistently exalt human rights and dignity. His love songs though really excel.
It is his HEART that sets him apart. FEELING. Along with Gregory Isaacs and Bob Marley, he is the greatest vocalist Jamaica has ever produced. That is saying a lot, because the little island of Jamaica has produced many great singers, most of whom remain very obscure. More than any other nation per capita by a factor of 100s.
Alton has produced some great vinyl albums with songs that have never made it to CD. This is true of at least a half dozen other great reggae albums by other singers. Alton's Silver Jubilee albums for example have great versions and songs not on any CD. Also, there is no CD with his version - the greatest of all - of the banned song "Fat Girl".
His sister Hortense arguably is the greatest female singer produced by Jamaica. Other contenders are Judy Mowatt and Phyllis Dillon. I would add The Lovejoys. She is understated and best when she sings Alton's songs, as well as a few other great Studio One songs found only on compendium albums and this one.