Nappy Brown - Down In The Alley: The Complete Savoy Singles As & Bs 1954-1962 [2CD Set] (2016)

EU-only two CD collection. When we talk about those artists who represent the transition between blues/R&B and soul it is usually Ray Charles, James Brown and Sam Cooke who come to the fore. The subject of this collection, Nappy Brown is not usually in the mix but after you have listened to this collection of his singles released between 1954 and 1962 you will certainly be wondering why. Hear Brown's voice bellow and roar across these 54 tracks and on hits like "Don't Be Angry", "Pitter Patter" and "It Don't Hurt No More". The gospel delivery and arrangement of "The Right Time" caught the attention of a young Ray Charles who was currently hitting the big time with outrageous blues versions of gospel songs. He covered it and retitled it "(Night Time Is) The Right Time" and secured a hit that eventually went on to become a standard. Nappy never compromised his sound despite his huge popularity in the teen pop market and as such this collection really doesn't sound as old as it is.