8 Classic Albums

This is one of a series of releases from the Real Gone label, featuring classic artists of the past. Each release typically reissues a handful of what were originally albums by the relevant artist, alongside a smattering of non-album single releases. This one is particularly good value in that it is basically the first 8 albums that Sam Cooke released (on the Keen label and also on RCA). I can only assume that these collections are only possible because they fall under the 50-year 'public domain' - which means that they can be reissued by anyone who has the means to do so, without either the artist's or the label's permission. Whatever, as with all of the 'Real Gone' releases, the sound quality is excellent, and with a voice like Sam Cooke's, can be enjoyed over and over again. Only down side is the lack of an information booklet- or any information at all, but these are such good value at the price that it seems a minor quibble. I would have liked some reproduction of the album covers (maybe those ARE copyrighted?) but all of that can be found on the web after a quick search. I like these releases a lot, in that they present the tracks in the same running order as the albums would have been, and are basically an instant record collection of great artists of the past, at a fraction of the price of an 'official' boxset collection. Recommended +++++

I have enjoyed the late Sam Cook 's songs since they first came out, usually on 45rpm singles. At the time I could not afford the albums even if I could find them. In the UK, that was almost impossible anyway. The albums featured here contain loads of fine material that I have never heard. There are also later songs which are not on this collection which I hope appear on a subsequent collection. Hopefully his magnificent 50's gospel (pre crossover) work with the Soul Stirrers will also appear sometime. Musically, Cook presents every song in his own flawless and individual way. Sometimes you feel that the record company dictated the repertoire and sometimes the 'standard studio orchestra' does not add anything to Cook's incredible voice. Cook was one of the 'soul pioneers' to whom many artists have since tried to emulate. It is such a shame that some of these bland imitators of soul that you here these days get far more recognition than the genuinly 'late, great' Cook.A small qualification to my review was felt to be appropriate after 3 or 4 listenings and a comparison of some with the originanal pressings on vinyl. It would seem that some tracks may be a bit over-processed. This has had a little effect on the tonal quality of Cook's incredible tenor voice. I still await the next batch of re-releases by this company.

Wonderful to have a classic selection of Sam's original albums. Possible the best soul singer off all time with great mastering.

takes some beating as a collectors piece

This set completed my collection. Previously I only had 'The best of Sam Cooke' and the Keen discs 'Tribute' and 'Encore'. I have several Real Gone box sets and am satisfied with the audio remastering. ( The Cooke set is not available on AMAZON U.S.A. which is why I also shop the U.K. site)

not qite as good as I expected

Such a wonderful dreamy selection of songs I could listen to all day. Many are more familiar by other artists, Nat King Cole etc, but Sam Cooke's smooth voice is so easy to listen to you soon forget an association with any other & just wallow in the wonderful melodies.

Sam Cooke is one of my all time favourites and although there is a lot more easy listening Jazz rather than the Chain Gang music but this does confirm what a beautiful soul voice this man had. What a shame he died so young!