For Once in My Life is a studio album by American singer Carmen McRae, released in 1967 by Atlantic Records. The arranger was Johnny Keating. The recording was made in London at Olympic Studios. The album consists covers mainly of modern popular songs by Burt Bacharach, Brian Wilson, the Beatles and Buffy Sainte-Marie.
Critical reception.
The "Billboard" magazine review noted that McRae is following a new path, choosing a repertoire from the current pop catalog, and it works effectively, as well as that her performance skills are better than ever and this gives the first album for Atlantic a good chance to take off. From a review by "Cash Box" magazine: "Carmen McRae sings a selection of pop melodies which her fans are bound to take to their hearts. The artist’s tone is mellow and true, and she gives meaningful interpretation to the lyrics. A quality package indeed." "Stereo Review" reviewer Rex Reed stated that it was a wonderful listening experience, showcasing Carmen's voice in a better, more relaxed, more controlled way than he had ever heard.
Tim Sendra from AllMusic noted in a retrospective review that it may seem like it's just an attempt to jump on the pop scene, but McRae, with her not so pleasant voice, but a great interpretation of the songs, creates great tracks. Although, in his opinion, there is not much jazz here, McRae fans should not be put off by the songs or the era, because this is one of the best albums of the second half of her career.
References.
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