In The Beginning

Isaac Hayes' first album as a solo act -- and a much more stripped down record than his later baroque symphonic sides! Ike's working here in trio mode -- playing piano and singing, alongside bass from Donald Duck Dunn and drums from the great Al Jackson -- who brings in a warmly rhythmic approach, especially at moments where we really wouldn't expect it! The tunes are all standards, but they're expanded by Ike in a unique style of singing and rapping -- similar to that which would be used with more force on later albums, but done here in a really personal, intimate, and super-sexy way. Tunes include "When I Fall In Love", "Misty", "Precious, Precious", and "You Don't Know Me Like I Know" -- and 2 tracks are done in nice extended medley modes!