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Three discs of material containing 54 tracks and 3 ½ hours worth of music is
overkill for most artists. Rickie Lee Jones’ unique catalog, though, warrants
such a collection. The Duchess of Cool could have been called the
Maven of Mellow because Jones explores many shades of the lighter side of
pop.
The obligatory signature tunes are present such as the immensely popular (and
absolutely catchy) “Chuck E’s In Love”, which some 26 years later sounds
remarkably crisp and fresh, as does “Coolsville” and “Satellites”. The first two
discs are compiled alphabetically, spreading out tracks from her 26 year career.
“Last Chance Texaco,” one of six tracks featured from her eponymous 1979 debut,
is a perfect example of her unique style. The song, utilizing a broken down car
metaphor for lost love, is wonderfully phrased and stretches her voice to the
limits as she emotes the pain in the last chorus.
The musicianship and production throughout the collection is sharp and perfectly
compliments her uncommon voice. Walter Becker of Steely Dan produced 1989’s
Flying Cowboys, which is represented by five tracks on the anthology. Donald
Fagan, also of Steely Dan, Steve Lukather and Toto band mate (the late) Jeff
Porcaro as well as Jim Keltner contribute to various tracks.
The final disc is comprised of contributions to other artists’ records,
compilations and previously unreleased demos. The contrast between her version
of Donovan’s “Sunshine Superman” and her duet with Dr. John on “Makin’ Whoopee”
is a perfect example of the range of material she covers within the mellow
landscape that she explores as an artist. If you are looking for an artist that
is unique, mellow and original, pick this up.
~R. David Smola
pretendcritic@aol.com
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