Harry Connick, Jr - She

"Everything I have done revolves around the New Orleans experience," confesses Harry Connick, Jr., New Orleans native and heir to that city's incomparable musical legacy. Produced by Tracey Freeman, with music by Harry and lyrics by Ramsey McLean, She marks the first time Harry Connick, Jr., has recorded an album of pure New Orleans music. Accompanied by his newly-formed funk band, Harry explores a mind-boggling variety of styles on the album, from funky rockin' instrumentals to hushed ballads to esoteric recitations. Yet every song lies within the framework of the rootsy New Orleans style that comes so naturally to Harry Connick, Jr.

From the opening track, it's clear Harry set out to have fun, and songs like "Here Comes The Big Parade," the rapturous "She," "That Party," and the wry "To Love The Language" embody a boisterous spirit. "(I Could Only) Whisper Your Name," the album's first single, grooves with a full horn section, while "Trouble" is a sly spare dialogue between Harry on vocals and piano with the congas. Ballads like "Honestly Now (Safety's Just Danger…Out of Place)" ratchet down the mood, while the instrumentals, "Funky Dunky" and "Joe Slam and the Spaceship" prove raucous enough for a Mardi Gras parade. Harry closes the album by playing every instrument on the song "Booker", a tribute to one of his first piano teachers, the late New Orleans piano genius, James Booker.

This is just a great album, bringing jazz back to the roots, with a solid touch of New Orleans/Dixieland style, mixed with funk. A must have. Oh yeah, this album is hard to find nowadays.. enjoy!

1. She
2. Between Us
3. Here Comes The Big Parade
4. Trouble
5. (I Could Only) Whisper Your Name
6. Follow The Music
7. Joe Slam and The Spaceship
8. To Love The Language
9. Honestly Now (Safety's Just Danger...Out Of Place)
10. She...Blessed Be The One
11. Funky Dunky
12. Follow The Music Further
13. That Party
14. Booker

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