Jean Carn ‎– Trust Me CD

Produced by jazz drummer-turned-talent-spotter, Norman Connors, it’s a solid set with Ms. Carn (she would add the letter ‘e’ to her surname after this album) sounding sublimely soulful, especially on the lovely Al Johnson-penned title track which boasts a bluesy sax solo from Ernie Watts. Other musicians whose talents are utilised on the set include such session luminaries as Jerry Peters, McKinley Jackson, Roy Ayers, Freddie Washington, Harvey Mason and Ndugu Chancler.

‘Super Explosion’ is a sizzling, energetic dance track propelled by slapped bass and decorated with some busy string parts. There’s also a strong remake of Harold Melvin & The Blue Notes’ Gamble & Huff-written ballad, ‘If You Don’t Know Me By Now.’ There’s a pleasant revamp, too, of Martha & The Vandellas old Motown evergreen, ‘My Baby Loves Me,’ and a tremendous interpretation of the Minnie Riperton song, ‘Completeness’ (a haunting slice of astral soul originally recorded on Minnie’s Charles Stepney-helmed 1970 debut, ‘Come Into My Garden’).

Carn with her multi-octave has no trouble in replicating the wide intervallic leaps and stratospheric high notes that characterised Riperton’s original version. This lovely, much-neglected little album provides a scintillating showcase for Jean Carn(e)’s amazing vocal talent.

Label: PTG Records ‎– PTG 34097

Country: Netherlands

Media Condition: Near Mint (NM or M-)
Sleeve Condition: Near Mint (NM or M-)