Just as I Am/Still Bill [ORIGINAL RECORDING REMASTERED]

Bill Withers

Product Details

• Audio CD (October 20, 2003)
• Original Release Date: October 14, 2003
• Number of Discs: 1
• Format: Original recording remastered
• Label: Raven [Australia]
• ASIN: B0000CG8I0
• Average Customer Review: 4.3 out of 5 stars See all reviews (6 customer reviews)
• Amazon.com Sales Rank: #76,736 in Music (See Bestsellers in Music)

Editorial Reviews

Product Description
Bill Withers Recorded a Multitude of Hits During the 70's Effortlessly Blending Smoky Late-night Funk and Bluesy Southern Soul Backed by a Rich Layering of Arrangements and Quality Song Writing. Includes Four Major Hits: "Ain't No Sunshine", "Lean on Me, "Use Me", and "Kissing My Love". Includes Two Bonus Tracks, "Better Days" (From the 1971 Man and Boy Soundtrack) and "it's all Over Now" (With Bobby Womack).

Customer Reviews

Most Helpful Customer Reviews

22 of 22 people found the following review helpful:

5.0 out of 5 stars Excellent re-release, November 20, 2003

By A Customer

*About the music*
These are two classic 1971 and 1972 albums by one of the unsung heros. On "Just As I Am" Bill backed by one of the best bands of the day, the same folks who laid down the sound for Otis Redding, Wilson Pickett, Sam & Dave, et. al. While some folks choose "Best Of's" to get all the hits, I personally love getting the original albums and all those diamonds in the rough that don't make the 'Best Of' cut. It gives me a good sense of what the artist was putting forth at that time. If you enjoy 1970's soul and r&b, do yourself a favor, add this one to your collection. These two albums have stood the test of time and I feel will continue to endure.

*About the sound*
I was a bit skeptical at first not being familiar w/ the Australian "Raven" label, but no more. This is a top-notch re-release in terms of its digitaly remastered sonic quality. Nice job.

11 of 11 people found the following review helpful:

5.0 out of 5 stars 2 Great Albums Now On CD, January 18, 2004

By	T. C Lane (Marina, CA USA) - See all my reviews (REAL NAME)

Although Legacy reissued 1972's Still Bill in 2003, they never got around to Withers first album from 1971. This Australian label does an excellent job of giving you 2 for the price of 1. The liner notes are excellent and the sound is top-notch. If you're new to Withers and want something other than his Best of's, then this is the next best thing. Also, try Live at Carnegie Hall which is also an essential addition.

7 of 7 people found the following review helpful:

5.0 out of 5 stars Raw Soul, May 6, 2007

By	Jonny Sokko "I'm a Beggar alright!" (Detroit, MI USA) - See all my reviews

It doesn't get much better than Bill Withers when it comes to pure earthy soul. He keeps everything simple and to the point. His voice doesn't flow with perfect pitch and control, but lays it all out on the table with pure emotion much like Otis Redding. Everyone has heard his songs, but barely anyone knows his name. Get to know Bill Withers and you will be glad you did.